VETERINARY MEDICINE,

LATE VETERINARY SURGEON OF THE FIRST, OB

ROYAL REGIMENT OF DRAGOONS.

PRINTED FOR LONGMAN, HURST, KEES, ORME,,
AND BROWN ; BALDWIN, CRADOCK, AND JOY j
SHERWOOD, NEELY, AND JONES, WALKER AND
BDWARDS 5 AND SIMPKIN AND MARSHALL.

Printed by S. Hamilton, Weybridge, Surrey.

VETERINARY
MATERIA MEDICA:

AN ACCURATE DESCRIPTION

VARIOUS SUBSTANCES
EMPLOYED IN VETERINARY MEDICINE;

THEIR PARTICULAR EFF1CTS

THE BODY OF THE HORSE:

OCCASIONAL OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES
OF THAT ANIMAL.

TO THE FIRST EDITION.

Within these few years only, has the
Veterinary Art acquired a distinct ap-
pellation, and a solid foundation in
this country, Receipts, handed down
by traditionary skill, in which ingre-
dients were accumulated withoutjudg-
ment or iscrimination, constituted the
principles and practice of what was
termed Farriery; a name which it de-
rived from the occupation of the per-
sons who practised it, who were, in
general, smiths or workers in iron�
Ferrarius, Ferrum*

* Farriers were formerly termed Ferrers, which is
certainly a better appellation.

To attempt to distinguish the causes
of the horse's diseases, was far beyond
their little skill; and in general, ran-
dom trials of the few burning medi-
cines in their list, formed their boasted
practice.

'Thescience at one time began to rise
above the order of smiths, and attracted
the notice of medical practitioners;*
butit was not hereby greatly improved:
they were not aware of the difference
that has since been found to exist be-
tween the structure and ceconomy of
the horse, and that of the human sub-
ject ; nor had they any idea that this
dissimilarity required much considera-
tion with respect to disease, and the
effect of medicine. Hence they were
led to bring the therapeutics and pa-
thology of the human body to veteri-

* See Dr.Bracken's Treatise on Farriery; also Gib-
son's, and Bartlett's.

nary science; and prescribed in some-
what larger doses to the brnte animal,
what they had found useful to man.*
Their practice was of course unsuc-
cessful, and the art sunk into its ori-
ginal disrepute. It is only since the in-
stitution of the Veterinary College, that
the anatomy and physiology of the
horse have been properly investigated,
and the effects of medicines on his body
correctly ascertained, by numerous and
appropriateexperiments, both in health
and disease; so that a secure foundation

* Arsenic affords a striking example of this fact. In
the human system, it is a deadly poison; but it has been
given to the horse, even to the extent of two drams,
without any sensible effect. (See Arsenic.)

It has in a few instances however produced violent
effects even in smaller doses.

White Vitriol (a strong emetic in the human body
in a small dose) has been given in the dose of eight
ounces, without any violent effect. This, Indeed, is
the case with many other medicines, which in man ape
considered poisonous.

is now laid; and, as long as scientific
men continue to study and practise the
veterinary art, it must necessarily be in
a progressive state of improvement.

Notuiihstauding many books hayg
already been published concerning the
diseases of horse, the therapeutical
part, or what relates to the medicines
proper for his diseases, has not been
hitherto explained. Such a work ap-
peared to the author a desicieratum in
the veterinary art, and has induced him
to add the present volume to his Com-
pendium of the Diseases, &c. of which
the indulgent public has already de-
manded a tenth edition, Having thus
ventured on untrodden ground, he had
no guide to lessen the labour of the at-
tempt ; but, b}' numerous and attentive
trials, from the author's experience and
particular attention to this subject, he
trusts he has been able to furnish a

volume not wholly unacceptable even
to the experienced practitioner. It has
been fche author's aim to explain the
general properties of the various sub-
stances employed in medicine, accu-
rately describing their particular effects
on the body of the horse, both in health
and disease; the doses in which they
may be oiven, their composition, and in
short every thing that has any relation
to them. This will be comprehended in
the Materia Medica, or first part of the
book: in tb Pharmacopaia are com-
prised, directionsforformingthe various
compositions in the most convenient
and efficacious manner ;�the whole
forming a system of therapeutics, in-
structing the inexperienced how to dis-
tinguish the purest and most genuine
drugs, and to compound them in such
a way, as will enable him to combat
with success the various diseases to
which horses are liable.

PREFACE
TO THE THIRD EDITION.

WHEN the second edition of the Ve-
terinary Materia Medica went to the
press, the author was prevented, by
severe illness, from adding the result of
his experience since the publication of
the first. The present edition, how-
ever, has been carefully revised; and
he hopes that some useful additions
will be found in it.

Mr. WHITE may be consulted on the Diseases
of Horses, either personally or by letter, at his
Veterinary Dispensary, Holloway-street, Exeter,
(if by letter, the fee is half a guinea; personally,
five shillings,) where all kinds of Horse and Cattle-
Medicines are prepared and sold. Convenient
Horse Medicine-Chests, containing a few neces-
sary Instruments, may also be purchased at a
short notice.

Of the Publishers of this Work, may be had the
Eleventh Edition of the first Volume, con-
taining,
A COMPENDIUM OF THE VETERINARY
ART; or an accurate Description of the Diseases
of the Horse, and their Mode of Treatment; the
Anatomy and Physiology of the Foot; and the
Principles and Practice of Shoeing. Illustrated
by numerous Plates. With Observations on Sta-
ble-Management, Feeding, Exercise, and Con-
dition�Price Is. Boards.

PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS on some
Important Diseases of the Horse; on the Pre-
vention and Treatment of Lameness; and on the
Precautions to be observed in Purchasing Horses,
being a Third Volume of the work.�Price 6*.

Very recently published as a Fourth Volume,

but sold separately,

OBSERVATIONS on the Diseases of Cows,
Sheep, Swine, and Dogs. Also, Particular Di-
rections for performing the most important Ope-
rations in Farriery. Illustrated by several Plates.
And Remarks on the Epidemic Catarrh, com-
monly called Distemper, in Horses. With sorne
additional Observations on certain Diseases of
the Horse's Eye.

Jn the Press, by the same Author,

A NEW VETERINARY DICTIONARY,
for the Pocket.

ABSORBENTS. Medicines are so termed
that correct any acidity that may exist in the
stomach or bowels, by combining with the
acid, and forming an inoffensive substance :
in this view they are said to absorb it. Chalk,
prepared oyster-shells, magnesia, and the al-
kalies, are of this kind.

Horses are sometimes disposed to eat their
Utter in preference to good hay, and not un-
-requently they have a propensity to swallow
earth, or any kind of rubbish. This is sup-
posed to arise from the irritation of an acid in
the stomach; and medicines of the absorbent
Kind are recommended for its removal; par-
ticularly chalk, mixed with chaff or cut hay.

^ls very probable, however, that the for-

St" °^f ^add 'ⁿ ^the ^stomach depends upon
aetoihty, or some diseased condition of that

MATERIA MEDIC A.

organ. Absorbents, therefore, seldom prove
effectual, unless preceded by a dose of warm
purging medicine; and then they should be
given in conjunction with tonics, such as
gentian, quassia, decoction of camomile,worm-
wood, &c. with an aromatic also, such as cas-
sia, ginger, cascarilla, &c. When horses are
in camp or at grass, they sometimes swallow
so much earth, that it forms large balls in.the
intestines resembling stones, which have in
time occasioned death. Hence we may learn
how necessary it is to purge horses when
taken from camp or grass; which will pro-
bably remove any of this earthy matter that
may have collected in the bowels. Horses
that work in stone-mills are more liable to
this complaint than others: in the greater
part of the cases 1 have met with, the horses
had worked for some time in a mill, or were
the property of a miller: horses in such
situations should therefore have a mild pur-
gative gien them now and then, which
would probably prevent the formation of
those stunes. I have lately seen a case of
this kind which happened to a miller's
horse: the poor animal suffered the most
violent pain; though, when examined after

ABSORBENTS-----SULPHURIC ACIP.

death, only a small stone of about three
ounces was found. I have one in my mu-
seum which weighs ten pounds.

ACIDS. This term is applied to medi-
cines that have a sour taste. Acids are also
distinguished by their changing an infusion
of blue violets or litmus to a red colour, and
combining readily with alkalies and earths.
Many of them also combine with or dissolve
metallic substances, forming with them very
useful compositions; such as blue vitriol,
lunar caustic, red precipitate, &c.

Chemists divide acids into three classes;
viz. mineral, vegetable, and animal; and
describe many different kinds under each
ciass : but we shall confine our attention to
such as may be employed, with advantage,
ui Veterinary Medicine and Surgery.

Sulphurs Acid, Vitriolic Acid, or Oil
J ^ttrioi' This acid was formerly prepared
from green vitriol or copperas (vitriolated
iron), or from the pyrites or fire-stone. It
is now, however, obtained from sulphur, by-
burning it with nitre, in a close vessel con-
taining _a small quantity of water, which is
afterwards separated from it by evaporation.
rttrwhc acid is a powerful caustic, and ge-

4 MATERIA MfiDICA.

nerally requires to be diluted with water be-
fore it is used; but when it is wanted to de-
stroy excrescences, particularly those which
arise in canker of the foot, it may be used
alone with advantage. One ounce of the
acid to a pint of water forms an useful lotion
for obstinate cases of grease; if made a little
stronger, it is a good application for foul
ulcers. Vitriolic acid is sometimes mixed
with oil of turpentine and hog's lard as a de-
tergent ointment for ulcerated heels, or for
dispersing indurated tumours; and, when
mixed with a proper proportion of Spanish
flies, it forms an active blister. (See Blisters
and Detergents.)

It is probable that vitriolic acid might be
given internally as a tonic with good effect;
but for this purpose it requires so much di-
lution, that it could not be given to a horse,
in sufficient quantity, without great incon-
venience.

This acid, by combining with other sub-
stances, forms many useful compositions.
With the mineral alkali, or soda, it forms
Glauber's salt; with iron, green vitriol;
with copper, blue vitriol.

Nitrous Acid, or Strong Spirit of Nitre.

This, like the preceding, is used only as an
external application in veterinary practice ;
though it might probably be employed in-
ternally with good effect, were it not for the
same inconvenience that attends the exhibi-
tion of the vitriolic acid.

Nitrous acid, in its concentrated or strong-
est state, is a powerful caustic ; and when
mixed with water, or unctuous substances,
it forms many efficacious lotions and oint-
ments for various external complaints. Al-
most every metal may be dissolved in this
acid, with many of which it forms very use-
ful caustics and escharotics; with silver it
makes lunar caustic (nitrated silver); and
with quicksilver, red precipitate (red ni-
trated quicksilver).�See Caustics, Escharo-
tics, and Detergents.

That useful medicine termed nitre is
comp_osed of this acid and the vegetable
alkali or potash (kali). The metallic com-
binations of nitrous acid may be employed
either i� _a liquid or solid state ; they may
also be diluted with water, or mixed with
unctuous substances, to form detergent oint-
ments of any degree of strength that may be
required. ^J

Strong or concentrated nitrous acid is of a
deep yellow colour, approaching to orange,
and emits suffocating fumes of the same
colour. When water is added, the yellow
colour is destroyed, and it ceases to emit
fumes: the same effect may be produced
merely by application of heat; in this state
it is termed nitric acid.

Aqua-fortis is made by mixing nitrous
acid with about an equal quantity of water.

Muriatic Acid, or Spirit of Salt. Tllis
acid is obtained by distilling common salt
with vitriolic acid.

Spirit of Salt is generally of a light yellow
colour, and when exposed to the air emits
white Suffocating fumes. This acid is some-
times used as a caustic, to destrojr excres-
cences or fungous flesh, or to cleanse foul
ulcers; and being considerably weaker than
the two former, may be applied in its con-
centrated state without inconvenience.

Muriatic Acid is a component part of se-
veral useful preparations, among which are
calomel, sublimate {muriate of quicksilver),
and crude sal ammoniac (muriate of am-
monia). When muriatic acid is distilled
with a mineral termed manganese, it ae-

AQUA-FORTIS�ACETOUS ACID. 7

quires new properties : it becomes capable
of destroying the colour of vegetable sub-
stances, and is therefore employed chiefly
in the process of bleaching ; in this state it
is termed oxygenated muriatic acid. If glan-
derous matter be exposed to the fumes of
this acid, its contagious quality is destroyed.
Acetous Acid, or Distilled Vinegar. This
well-known acid is commonly employed as
an embrocation for strains and bruises; but
it proves much more efficacious in those
complaints if mixed with sal ammoniac (mu-
riate of ammonia), and a small proportion of
spirit of wine. An useful lotion is also made,
by mixing with vinegar a small quantity of
Goulard or sugar of lead, and then diluting
it with water according to the nature of the
case for which it is employed. Goulard^s ex-
tract, or extract of saturn (acetated water of
itharge), i_s _macj_e _by _mi_xi_ng litharge with
vinegar, and simmering the mixture for a
considerable time over a slow fire. From the
same materials, and varying the process a lit-
tle, sugar of l_ead is prepared (acetated lead).
°r all veterinary purposes, common vi-
negar is equal, if not superior, to that which
h distilled.

Tartareous Acid, or Acid of Tartar.
Cream of Tartar consists principally of this
acid, having a small proportion of vegetable
alkali, or potash {kali), combined with it.

Though Cream of Tartar has been found
useful in human medicine, it has no percep-
tible effect upon the horse, and I believe is
very seldom used by experienced veterina-
rians. Writers on farriery have recom-
mended cream of Tartar as a necessary in-
gredient in purgative medicine, to correct
a dangerous acrimony supposed to reside in
(does: this opinion, however, is unfounded.
Aloes, if not given too largely, is an inno-
cent purgative; and were it otherwise,
cream of Tartar has not the power of cor-
recting acrimony. It has been recommended
also in febrile complaints, mixed with infu-
sion of senna, lenitive electuary, &c. as a
cooling drink. But according to my expe-
rience, cream of Tartar, as well as lenitive
electuary and senna, are absolutely useless
in veterinary medicine.

Cream of Tartar is found in an impure
state, adhering to the sides and bottoms of
vessels in which wine has been kept.

AIR. The health of horses very muck

TARTAREOUS ACID�AIR. J)

depends upon the salubrity of the air in
which they are kept; and it is probable
that many of their diseases arise from the
little attention that is paid to the ventilation
of stables. It is said that even the glanders,
a fatal and contagious disease, has been
generated by confining horses in an impure
^au\ It is a common practice with grooms,
particularly those who fancy themselves pro-
foundly skilled in the art of farriery, to stop
every crevice they can find in the stable, so
that pure air is with difficulty admitted; and
the noxious vapours arising from the litter,
from perspiration and respiration, are in
great measure confined. Horses thus situ-
ated must necessarily suffer in a greater or
less degree ; and though the air may not be
so contaminated as to occasion fatal diseases,
" is sufficiently so to debilitate the consti-
tution, and thereby lay a foundation for nu-
merous complaints, as well as to create local
diseases, such as inflamed eyes, obstinate
coughs, and perhaps momiblindness, as it is
termed. Horses that have weak eyes and
lungs are sure to be injured by this treat-
� Another inconvenience arising from
", is that of rendering a horse very suscep-

tible of cold. Ventilation is, therefore, aa
object of great importance in the construc-
tion of stables; and is most conveniently
done by making proper apertures in the
ceiling, communicating with the external
air; and by means of windows, adapted to
the form and size of the stable. It is a bad
method of ventilation to leave the upper
part of the racks open, so as to communicate
with the roof of the building, as a current of
air is thereby produced in the stall, from the
ready ascent of the light air, over the horse's
head. The litter should not be suffered to
remain in the stall during the day, but be
removed to some open place and well shaken-,
that the ammoniacal vapours it affords may
be thoroughly dissipated. Should it be ne-
cessary for a horse to lie down in the day-
time, he should be allowed fresh straw.

ALKALIES. Alkalies form one of the
classes of saline bodies, and are of three
kinds : 1st, The vegetable alkali, kali or pot-
ash. 2d, The mineral alkali, soda or na-
tron : and the volatile alkali, or ammonia.
Each of these will be described under the
following heads: kali, natron, and ammonia :
which names are employed by the London

ALKALIES----ALOES.

college of physicians. Alkalies are distin-
guished by their changing blue vegetable
colours to a green, and yellow to orange;
by combining rapidly with acids, and form-
ing with them neutral salts (see Acids);
and by rendering oils miscible with water
(see Emulsions and Soap). The vegetable
and mineral alkalies, from not being eva-
porable, except in a high degree of heat,
were termed fixed: and ammonia, being
evaporable in a low temperature, obtained
the name of volatile alkali.

ALKANET ROOT. The only use of
this root, is to give an elegant red colour to
oils and ointments.

ALOES. This is the inspissated juice of
certain plants of the same name, and the
most effectual purgative for horses we are
acquainted with. It is of an intensely bitter
taste, and of a strong unpleasant odour.

The different sorts of aloes are distin-
guished by the names of the places whence
they are brought.

Socqtrine Aloes is brought from the
island Socotra, in the Indian ocean, and is
supposed to be more safe in its operation
than the other kinds. It is of a dark red-

dish or brown colour, quite opaque, and has
a less disagreeable smell than the others;
it sells at a high price, and is therefore not
unfrequently adulterated. I have been so
often disappointed in the effect of socotrine
aloes, or rather what is commonly sold under
that name, that I now always use the Barba-
does, which cannot be so easily adulterated
without detection*.

Balbadoes Aloes is brought from Bar-
badoes, and has been generally considered
as a rough medicine, very liable to produce
griping, and other unpleasant effects ; but
I have always found it a safe and efficacious
purgative. Barbadoes aloes is of a darker
colour than the former kind, less brittle,
and of a stronger and more disagreeable
smell. It is certainly more active than the
socotrine; and, as far as my experience
goes, more certain in its operation: nor have
I ever found it produce those dangerous ef-
fectis that have been attributed to it, when
given in a proper dose, and when the horse
is not neglected during its operation : in-

* At this time (December 14, 1805) Socotrine Aloes are at
»:>oi.vt the same price or cheaper than Barbadoes.

deed, every kind of aloes is liable to pro-
duce even fatal consequences if given too
largely, or if the horse be treated improperly
while under their effect*. There is a pecu-
liarity in the horse's intestines which ren-
ders them more liable to be injured by pur-
gatives of every kind, than those of any
other domestic animal: cathartic medicines
should therefore be always prepared by per-
sons of judgment and experience.

* A late writer on Cattle Medicine asserts that the Barbacloes
Aloes is very rough, and often dangerous in its operation ; and
thinks his opinion confirmed by an experiment made on his own
stomach. I can confidently assert, that I have given many hun-
dreds of doses since the first publication of this book, and that
not one single case has occurred in which it operated in a rough
or unpleasant manner. I have also given an extensive trial to
the Socotriae and Cape Aloes, and again found them very weak
and uncertain in their effect. The former are therefore pre-
ferred, on account of their superior strength ; the common dose
for a hunter being 4 or 5 drams, joined with soap or kali, &e.;
'his dose is equal to 7 or 8 drams of Socotrine Aloes; their
purgative _v,alu_y being �f _tlie _same _ki,,_d> _thougIl _a _givenweight of the former contains more of it than the same weight
�of the latter. It may _De proper to add, that my experiments
have been made on the liorse, and not on man.

twnce the above was written, I have many times given the
Cape Aloes a fair trial, as well as the Socotrine, &c, and find
my first opinion on this subject so perfectly confirmed by expe-
rience that I never will use any other kind of Aloes than the
Barbadoes.�Sept. 1813.

Cape Aloes is rather transparent, and
very brittle : it is easily powdered, in which
state it is of a bright yellow colour ; the
odour arising from it is not so strong as
the Barbadoes, but rather stronger and less
agreeable than the socotrine. This kind is
sold at a much lower price than the others,
but is so weak and uncertain in its effect,
that it is seldom employed in veterinary
medicine. The dose of socotrine aloes is
from five drams to nine; Barbadoes, from
four drams to six; and of the Cape, from six
to ten drams.

Aloes generally operates more speedily
when joined with soap or either of the fixed
alkalies. (See Alkalies.)

Aloes is sometimes given as an alterative
in the dose of one or two drams. It is also
an ingredient in Fryar's balsam, and com-
pound tincture of myrrh; preparations often
used by farriers. (See Clathartics, Vulnera-
ries, Alteratives.)

ALTERATIVES are medicines that act
very gradually upon the constitution, and
therefore require to be continued for some
time. The medicines most commonly used
as alteratives in farriery are antimony, nitre,

ALOES�ALTERATIVES. 15

sulphur, and resin; these are generally given
together, particularly the three former.

Though a mixture of these may some-
times produce good effects, it is by no
means an eligible medicine : indeed, I have
seen it given frequently, but have very sel-
dom observed it do any good; and in the
few cases where it appeared beneficial, na-
ture, perhaps, had no inconsiderable share
in the operation.

It is commonly supposed that the good ef-
fects of alteratives arise from certain changes
they produce in the blood : it is more pro-
bable, however, that they act only on the
solids ; and though their action is scarcely
perceptible, they will be found upon a care-
ful examination to produce some sensible
effect, either upon the bowels, the kidneys,
or the skin ; increasing the action of those
parts, and causing them to secrete their
respective juices or fluids more copiously.
Another effect of alteratives, is to augment
the vigour or tone of the system. From this
view of the subject it appears necessary to
divide alteratives into four classes; viz. laxa-
tives, diuretics, diaphoretics, and tonics.

Laxative Alteratives are useful in

many cases, and may often be substituted
for purgatives with great advantage.

When a horse is troubled with worms,
and is too weak to take strong medicines,
or when he cannot be spared from his work,
they are extremely convenient, and gene-
rally beneficial. In obstinate cases of grease,
and in chronic inflammation of the eyes,
they often do good ; they are generally ser-
viceable also in coughs of long standing, or
even when they are recent, if not caused by
strangles, in which disease the throat is often
so much inflamed, and so very sore, as to
render the exhibition of medicine by the
mouth improper. Glysters, however, are
often beneficial in those cases. In short,
there is no medicine of more general utility
in the diseases of horses, than the laxative al-
teratives, the most effectual of which is aloes,
in the dose of one or two drams, with an equal
quantity, or rather more, of Castile soap.

When it is employed to destroy worms,
from ten to twenty grains of calomel may be
added. Common salt, in the dose of three
or four ounces, is sometimes employed as an
alterative, and generally opens the bowels in.
three or four days.

Diuretic Alteratives are composed of
nitre, resin, soap, and turpentine. Diuretic
alteratives are employed in swellings of the
legs and other parts, or as a preventive, in
horses that are subject to such swellings.
They are given also to improve the coat and
general condition of the animal.

Though not so effectual in many cases as
the preceding, they are certainly very con-
venient and innocent, and produce so little
disturbance in the body, that a horse may
continue his work while taking them, with-
out the least danger, even in the winter sea-
son. Nor is there any trouble in giving
them ; as a horse readily eats them, when in
the form of a powder, with his coin. The
laxative alterative has not this advantage ;
the aloes, of which it is composed, being
extremely bitter, and therefore requires to
be given in the form of a ball.

Diaphoretic Alteratives are composed
of medicines that act on the skin, gradually
increasing the insensible perspiration, and
giving a smoothness and gloss to the coat.
The most effectual medicines of this class,
are the preparations of antimony (see Anti-
mony) ; but these may be rendered more

efficacious by being joined with other me-
dicines. (See Pharmacopoeia.)

The complaints in which this kind of al-
terative is most useful, are those termed
surfeit and hide-bound; they are also em-
ployed to remove an undue determination of
blood to any internal organ, or to diminish
general plethora.

Diaphoretic alteratives seldom prove ef-
fectual unless assisted by exercise and good
grooming.

Tonic Alteratives are composed of the
preparations of iron, copper, zinc, and arse-
nic : there are also vegetable tonics, such as
Peruvian bark, quassia, gentian, and other
bitter roots. It is remarkable that arsenic,
though so poisonous in the human body, is
the best tonic for horses we are acquainted
with, and may be given even in considerable
doses with perfect safety. (See Arsenic.)

The medicines we have just named will
be fully described in their respective places.
�(See Iron, Copper, Zinc, Bark Peruvian,
Gentian, and Quassia; also Alteratives, Phar-
macopoeia.)

The alteratives recommended by writers
on farriery are not composed according to

ALTERATIVES�ALUM.

the distinction we have here made; but lax-
atives, diuretics, &c. are mixed with little
discrimination: thus, as we have before ob-
served, antimony, nitre, sulphur, and resin,
form their general alterative; and when it
was required to remove diseases, supposed
to arise from obstruction in the blood-ves-
sels, some ponderous medicines were pre-
scribed : among these were Cinnabar, and
jEthiop's mineral. This mechanical mode
of removing obstructions, however, is now
totally disregarded, being incompatible with
our present knowledge of physiology.

ALTHEA. See Marsh-mallows.

ALUM. A saline body, composed of the
vitriolic acid, and alumine, or pure clay. It
is used internally as an astringent in diar-
rhoea, diabetes, &c. in doses from half an
ounce to an ounce, and is generally joined
with Utters and aromatic stimulants, such as
gentian, cassia, aniseed, carraway seed, &c.
For external purposes alum is very useful;;
it is a good remedy.for the grease, when
finely powdered and sprinkled on the dis-
eased parts; when burnt, as it is termed, it
becomes an excellent remedy for cleansing
foul ulcers, and more effectually in obstinate
cases of grease.

Burnt Alum is made by putting any
quantity of alum in an iron ladle, or corrr-
mon firepan, and keeping it over a gentle
fire, until its watery parts are evaporated,
and it is converted into a light and easily
pulverable substance. If exposed to a strong
beat for some time, the alum is decomposed,
and of course useless.

ALKOHOL. See Spirit rectified.

ALLSPICE. Jamaica Pepper.

This is seldom employed in veterinary
medicine, being very inferior to many
cheaper medicines of the same class: its es-
sential oil, however, possesses a considerable
stimulant power, and may be employed in
the composition of cordial medicines.

The dose is from twenty drops to half a
dram

AMBER. This is what naturalists term
a bitumen. It affords only one preparation
that is used in veterinary practice,�an es-
sential oil, of a dark colour, and very disa-
greeable odour,�which is employed as an
embrocation in strains, bruises, &c. gene-
rally mixed with other oil, such as oil ef el-
der, turpentine, &c. It is given internally as
an antispasmodic, in doses from two drams
to half an ounce. For medical purposes

AMBER�AMMONIA. 21

this essential oil is rectified, whereby it be-
comes of a lighter colour, and loses in some
degree its unpleasant smell; but it does
not appear to be rendered more efficacious.
There is a salt of amber kept in the shops,
Procured from amber by sublimation, but it
^ls ^never used in veterinary practice.

AMMONIA. This is the modern term

^or ^wnat was named volatile alkali, and is
Procurdd either from bones or sai ammoniac.
** >s kept in the shops, both in a solid and a

'quid form. Strictly speaking, pure ammo-
^nia ^exists only in the form of gas, or air; but
water will absorb a considerable quantity
^thls ^air; and when saturated with it be-
comes a violent stimulant, capable of in-
naming and even blistering the skin. This
¹⁸ ^termed water of pure ammonia, or strong
^sPmt nj sal ammoniac, and is extremely
useful in dispersing indolent tumours, if
mixed with an equal quantity of sweet oil,
m which camphor has been dissolved. It is
* good application also in swellings of the

of st ^SmCWS °^f °^ther ^partS' ⁱⁿ ^consecl^uenceo s rains or bruises. Water of pure ammo-
ma is too strong for internal use; but when
ammonia is by _a chemical process combined

with carbonic acid, or fixed air, it assumes a
solid form, and is rendered sufficiently mild
for internal use. In this state it is named
prepared ammonia, volatile sal ammoniac, or
smelling salt, being much used for smelling-
bottles, as its quick pungent odour is well
calculated to remove faintness.

Prepared Ammonia is an excellent sti-
mulant and cordial, and may be given in
doses from half a dram to two drams. I
have seen it very serviceable in the latter
stages of fever, when debility is the leading
symptom.

When prepared ammonia is dissolved in
water to saturation, it forms water of mild
ammonia, or common spirit of sal ammoniac;
when distilled with spirit and some aromatic
oils, spirit of sal volatile, or compound spirit
of ammonia: and if assafxtida be added, the
feetid spirit of ammonia is produced, which
is an excellent antispasmodic. (See Assa-
foetida.)

The Salt and Spirit of Hartshorn are
nearly the same as the prepared, and the
water of ammonia; but being distilled from
bones or stag horns, which are of the same
nature, they are slightly impregnated with

AMMONIA�AMMONIACUM. 23

animal oil, which gives them a peculiar
smell, and is supposed to increase their
antispasmodic power. (See Antispasmo-
dics.)

AMMONIACUM is divided into two
sorts. The first is of a yellowish colour, in-
terspersed with small pieces of wood, and
other extraneous matter: the other, in small
pieces or drops, of a whiter colour than the
former, and much more pure; this is com-
monly called drop ammoniacum. The for-
mer, however, may be employed for veteri-
nary purposes, making a little allowance in
the dose for the extraneous matter it con-
tains; but this may be in a great measure
separated by pounding and sifting.

Gum Ammoniacum is an excellent ex-
pectorant, in doses from three to five drams.
It is advantageously joined with powdered
squills, _and i_n _some _cases _whh _cam _horj

balsam of tolu, and opium.

Horses that are of a full habit, should be
oled and take a laxative ball previous to the
exhibition of those expectorants, which ge-
nerally renders them more efficacious. It
may be proper to observe, that ammoniacum
^ls ^never ^t0 ^be employed in recent coughs,

arising From catarrh, or cold, but only in the
chronic kind, that are not dependent on in-
flammation.

ANGELICA. An aromatic plant, too
weak for veterinary purposes.

ANGUSTURA BARK. This is said to
be a good tonic and stomachic medicine;
and is often employed by medical prac-
titioners, in cases where the Peruvian bark
does not agree with the patient. It does
not appear to be necessary in veterinary
practice, and is very rarely used.

The dose is from half an ounce to an
ounce or more.

ANISE-SEED, or Aniseed. This seed is
much used in horse medicine, as a stimulant
and cordial; but its power is by no means
considerable. It is thought to possess also
an expectorant quality, and is therefore
given in coughs and other complaints of the
lungs, but is generally joined with other ex-
pectorants. It is certainly, though weak, a
very grateful stimulant, and does much good
where the stomach is weak, and disposed to
flatulency; it is therefore an useful ingredi-
ent in cordial medicines. The dose is about
once ounce or rather more.

ANGELICA�ANTHELMINTICS. 25

All the virtues of aniseed reside in its es-
sential oil, which is easily obtained by distil-
lation. This is by far the neatest and most
convenient form for using the medicine, and
should generally be preferred.

The dose is from half a dram to' one
dram.

ANTHELMINTICS. Medicines that
destroy worms, or expel them from the in-
testines. The most effectual are the mercu-
rial purgatives. (See Pharmacopoeia, article
Anthelmintics.)

A variety of vegetables have been thought
to possess this quality, but without founda-
tion; among these are box, rue, savin, and
wormwood. yEthiop's mineral, antimony,
sulphur, and tin, have also been considered
as anthelmintics: but I have ne\er known
any of them effectual in this way. I beiieve,
however, that tin has not been fairly tried :
and as it is an efficacious anthelmintic in
dogs, it may probably be found useful in
horses*. Of all the mercurial preparations,

� lave lately had an opportunity of trying the efficacy of

tin, as a worm w>�,r t *>***■ ^J

> orm medicine. It sometimes destroys them, but not

um oi-mly; _and _appears _lQ _be _mofe _effet._mal _wheo _ed _w._th

calomel is by far the best for this purpose,
and may be given with aloes, soap, and
some aromatic oil, with a little ginger;
Many prefer giving the calomel at night,
and the purgative the following morning.
Aloes are a good anthelmintic, particularly
when mixed with a small proportion of gam-
boge. Arsenic has been very fairly tried,
and does not seem to possess any anthelmin-
tic power. A saline substance has been late-
ly introduced from India, as a remedy for
that species of worm termed botts. It seems
to be composed of common salt and liver of
sulphur, and is named sal indus. It does
not appear to deserve the character that has
been given of it; though, like salt or brine,
it will sometimes cause the common or in-
testinal worm to be evacuated.

At present we know of no certain remedy
that will destroy botts, though they often
pass off spontaneously. (See Compendium,
Veterinary Art, Worms__See also Anthel-
mintics in Pharmacopoeia.)

It has been supposed, that worms are
sometimes generated in consequence of de-
bility in the digestive organs. Tonics have
therefore been recommended, particularly

ANTHELMINTICS�ANTIMONY. " 27

the vegetable bitters; such as bark, worm-
wood, camomile, &c. When worms are dis-
covered in the horse's dung, after a fair trial
has been given to mercurial purgatives (es-
pecially if he appears to be weak, and inca-
pable of much work), it would be adviseable
to give tonic and cordial preparations, with
a generous diet: but whenever this is done,
there must be proportionate exercise.

ANTIMONY. This is a heavy, shining,
brittle mineral, somewhat like black lead
when powdered, but of a darker colour. It
is common in Germany and France. A small
quantity is found in Cornwall, but not suf-
ficiently pure for medicinal purposes.

Antimony is composed of a metallic sub-
stance termed regulus of antimony, and sul-
phur. It is given as an alterative, in doses
ot an ounce or more, to improve the coat and
condition of horses: some give it to destroy
worms; but it does not appear to possess any
power of that kind. A variety of useful
preparations is made from antimony, many
°f which are more efficacious than the mi-
neral itself; among these are liver of anti-
mony (sulphurated oxyd of antimony), anti-
momal poicder, which is said to be the same

as James's powder, emetic tartar (tartarized
antimony), golden sulphur of antimony, and
Vermes mineral,�each of these will be de-
scribed in its proper place.

ANTISEPTICS are medicines which pre-
vent putridity, or remove it if already be-
gun. The most efficacious are bark and
other bitters; opium, wine, ether, ammonia,
and camphor.

Horses do not appear to be subject to
those fevers which, in the human system,
are termed putrid; so that these medicines
are not often required. In gangrene, or
mortification of the external parts, however,
they are very useful. The efficacy of these
medicines seems to depend' on their tonic
or' strengthening quality; as putridity in
the living body is generally the effect of a
high degree of debility.

ANTISPASMODICS are medicines which
possess the power of allaying inordinate or
painful motions in the system, particularly
those involuntary contractions in parts which
are naturally subject to the command of the
will.

Medical writers divide antispasmodics into
two kinds; viz. stimulants^ and sedatives.

ANTISEPTICS�ARSENIC.

1 o the former belong arsenic, preparations
or copper, zinc, and iron; also ammonia,
ether, essential oils, &c. The latter com-
prehends opium, musk, camphor, and all
the vegetable narcotics.

Medicines of the foetid kind, such as gal-
hanum, assa fcetida, &c. have also an anti-
spasmodic quality.

When spasm arises from irritation, seda-
tives are to be given ; but when it depends
merely on debility, tonics are evidently
proper.

APERIENTS. Opening medicines. (See
Laxatives and Cathartics.)

AQUAFORTIS. Weak nitrous acid.
(See Acid Nitrous.)

ARABIC GUM. (See Gum Arabic.)
ARSENIC. There are two kinds of ar-
senic kept; the white, and the yellow. The
J" is a combination of white arsenic and
sulphur, either natural or artificial, varying
in colour according to the proportion of sul-
phur, which, when considerable, gives it an
orange or red colour; it is then called real-
^^and ^used as a pigment only.

White arsenic is obtained in the process
roasting certain ores. The arsenic sub-

MATERIA JVStJMCA.

limes, and is found in chimneys adapted to
the purpose. It is beautifully white, and
very heavy, but easily reduced to a powder.
The powdered arsenic of the shops is gene-
rally adulterated, and ought never to be de-
pended upon. The practitioner should al-
ways buy it in the lump, and either powder
it himself or see it done.

White arsenic is one of the best tonics in
horses that we are acquainted with; and,
though a violent poison in the human system,
may be given to this animal with perfect
safety. From its tonic quality it has often
suspended, or apparently cured the glan-
ders; but its effect in this way, I believe, is
never permanent. It is prudent to begin
with a small dose, but not less than eight
grains. This may be gradually increased to
twenty or thirty, and continued as long as
there is occasion. In experiments on glan-
dered horses, I have seen a dose of two
drams given twice a day, and continued for
a week: at which period it produced in-
flammation of the bowels. I have often
known two drams given for two or three days
successively, without any perceptible effect;
it will sometimes, however, in that dose, oc-

ARSENIC�ASSA ^FCETIDA. ^

casion great disturbance in the stomach and
bowels. In smaller doses it seems perfectly
innocent. When arsenic is employed as a
tonic or strengthening medicine, it should
be finely powdered, and mixed into a ball
with aniseed, ginger, or other cordials. At
the same time, attention should be paid to
the horse's diet, &c. It is necessary to give
some mucilaginous liquid, such as water-
gruel, or infusion of linseed, just before the
arsenic, that it may not act upon the sto-
mach too violently. (See Balls.)

The cases in which arsenic is said to be
most beneficial, are those where horses be-
come weak and emaciated without any ap-
parent cause; sweating with the most mo-
derate exercise, and almost incapable of
doing a day's work.

I have tried its powers as a vermifuge;
and though in some cases it appeared to de-
stroy the worms, it was by no means uni-
form in its effect. In one case, where it was
given by way of experiment to a glandered
horse, it appeared to have destroyed some
botts, which were found dead in the sto-
mach.

ASSA FCETIDA, a gummy and resinous

MATERIA MET5ICA.

substance, possessing a powerful and most
unpleasant smell. It is much used in hu-
man medicine, as an antispasmodic, in nerv-
ous and hysterical complaints. In veterinary
practice it is not so frequently employed,
though I think I have observed good effects
from it in spasmodic complaints, and some
practitioners speak highly of its virtues. It
is said to be serviceable in obstinate coughs,
or thickness of wind, and flatulent colic.
It appears to be more efficacious when join-
ed with ammonia, in the form offcetid spirit
of ammonia, a preparation kept in the shops.
The dose of assa foetida is from two drams
to half an ounce or more; it is generally
joined with galbanum, ammoniacum, &c.
When employed as an expectorant, squill is
an useful addition.

The dose of the foetid spirit of ammonia
is from one ounce to one and a half ounce.

ATTENUANTS. Medicines were thus
termed, which were supposed to render the
blood more fluid.

BALLS, or Boluses. This is the most
common form in which medicine is given to
fcorses, and generally the most convenient.
Every groom ought to make himself expert

ATTENUANTS�BALLS. 33

m giving balls, without using the instrument
termed a balling iron: but there are some
horses that will not take a ball by any other
means. In giving a ball, the horse's tongue
is drawn out on the off or right side, and held
firmly with the left hand, while with the right
the ball is quickly passed over the tongue
into the pharynx, or top of the gullet: the
moment the right hand is withdrawn from
the mouth the tongue is let loose, and the
ball generally swallowed. The balling iron
is so contrived as to keep the mouth open,
while the ball is forced into the throat; it is
then immediately withdrawn.

Balls should be made at the time they are
wanted; as by keeping they often become so
hard as to be almost insoluble in the sto-
mach, sometimes.passing through the intes-
tines unchanged : by keeping they also lose
much of their strength, particularly when
the ingredients are evaporable in the com-
mon temperature of the atmosphere, which
is the case with camphor, ammonia, essen-
tial oils, &c. But the most serious inconve-
nience which arises from giving balls that
have been kept until they become very
hard, is, that they are liable to stick in the

throat or gullet, and thereby endanger the
horse's life: indeed, I have known horses
destroyed in this way.

When balls are composed of very stimu-
lating ingredients, the horse should drink a
little water before they are given, to prevent
too strong an action upon the stomach : it is
better to give the water before the medicine,
as a horse can seldom be induced to drink
immediately after.

When arsenic, sublimate, or any of those
corrosive medicines are given, a considera-
ble quantity of water-gruel or decoction of
linseed should be given before the ball.
Balls cannot be conveniently given unless
wrapped up in paper: but for this purpose
the softest and thinnest should be chosen.

BALSAMS. Balsams are generally fluid,
of various degrees of thickness, odorous, and
combustible: they resemble resins, being
soluble in spirit of wine; and when thus
dissolved, impart to water a sweetish taste,
and a milky appearance.

Balsam of Canada is a very pure kind
of turpentine ; and though preferred on this
account to Venice and common turpentine,
is unnecessary in veterinary medicine, being

Very expensive; whereas Venice turpentine
is much cheaper, and I believe equally ef-
ficacious.

Canada Balsam is a strong diuretic in the
dose of one ounce or more: in smaller doses
it has been recommended in chronic cough,
and diseases of the lungs.

Balsam of Copaiva, or Capivy, pos-
sesses nearly the same properties as the pre-
ceding. It has been often employed with
success in the flatulent colic or gripes: it
has been given also in chronic cough with
good effect.

The dose is about one ounce or more.

Balsam of Gilead is nearly similar to
the capivy, but more pleasant. Many virtues
have been attributed to these balsams by
medical writers : they were supposed to heal
ulceration of the lungs, kidneys, or other
.internal parts, and to be powerful corrobo-
rants. They do not appear, however, to
possess these qualities, nor do they seem to
differ much from turpentine in their medi-
cal virtues. (See Turpentine.)

Balsam of I'eku. 1 his is of a different
kind from the former balsams, being more
stimulating, and better calculated as a re-

medy for obstinate coughs: it should be as-
sisted, however, by other expectorants, such
as squills.

The dose is from one to two drams. (See
Expectorants and Pectorals, in Pharmaco-
poeia.)

Balsam of Tolu. This is generally in
a solid form, of a light yellowish colour, and
fragrant odour: it is used for the same pur-
poses as the balsam of Peru, in doses from
two to four drams.

Balsam of Sulphur. This is made by
boiling sulphur and olive oil, until they are
united: they form a dark-coloured mass
rather like treacle in appearance, but more
tenacious, and of a very disagreeable odour.

Balsam of sulphur is used as an expecto-
rant ; but farriers frequently employ it in
recent inflammatory coughs, which is highly-
improper. It may be useful, however, in
chronic coughs.

The dose is from half an ounce to one
ounce.

BARBADOES TAR is a bituminous sub-
stance, brought from the island of Barba-
does. It is nearly of the colour and consist-
ence of common tar, but smells differently,

BARBADOES TAR�BARK PERUVIAN. 37

and its colour approaches more to brown.
It has a considerable diuretic power, and is
said to be useful in chronic coughs. Farriers
frequently use it for this purpose; but by
giving it indiscriminately they often do mis-
chief. They also emplov it as an external
remedy in strains and bruises, generally dis-
solved in oil of turpentine and oil of elder.

BARBADOES ALOES. (See Aloes Bar-
badoes.)

BARILLA. The name of a sea plant,
from the ashes of which mineral alkali, or
soda, is obtained in an impure state. (See
Alkalies.)

BARK PERUVIAN, or Jesuit's Bark.
Though in the human subject bark is an
useful tonic and febrifuge medicine, it has
no very remarkable effect on the horse. I
have seen it do good, however, in gangrene,
or mortification of the external parts, when
mixed with opium, ammonia, and ginger.
It is serviceable also in cases of debility,
arising from large suppurations, and where
there is a copious discharge of matter. It
^maY be employed likewise in diabetes, a
isease consisting i_n an excessive discharge
or urine.

The dose is from six drams to one ounce
and a half or two ounces.





A TREATISE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE, IN TWO VOLS. By JAMES WHITE, OF EXETER, LATE VETERINARY SURGEON OF THE FIRST, OB ROYAL REGIMENT OF DRAGOONS. VOL. II. CONTAINING THE MATERIA MEDICA, AND PHARMACOPOEIA.

		A NEW EDITION.

	LONDON: PRINTED FOR LONGMAN, HURST, KEES, ORME,, AND BROWN ; BALDWIN, CRADOCK, AND JOY j SHERWOOD, NEELY, AND JONES, WALKER AND BDWARDS 5 AND SIMPKIN AND MARSHALL.

			1816.



	PREFACE.
	PREFACE.	VU
		VU

nary science; and prescribed in some- what larger doses to the brnte animal, what they had found useful to man.* Their practice was of course unsuc- cessful, and the art sunk into its ori- ginal disrepute. It is only since the in- stitution of the Veterinary College, that the anatomy and physiology of the horse have been properly investigated, and the effects of medicines on his body correctly ascertained, by numerous and appropriateexperiments, both in health and disease; so that a secure foundation * Arsenic affords a striking example of this fact. In the human system, it is a deadly poison; but it has been given to the horse, even to the extent of two drams, without any sensible effect. (See Arsenic.) It has in a few instances however produced violent effects even in smaller doses. White Vitriol (a strong emetic in the human body in a small dose) has been given in the dose of eight ounces, without any violent effect. This, Indeed, is the case with many other medicines, which in man ape considered poisonous.



	MATERIA
	MATERIA	ME DIC A.
		ME DIC A.

ABSORBENTS. Medicines are so termed that correct any acidity that may exist in the stomach or bowels, by combining with the acid, and forming an inoffensive substance : in this view they are said to absorb it. Chalk, prepared oyster-shells, magnesia, and the al- kalies, are of this kind. Horses are sometimes disposed to eat their Utter in preference to good hay, and not un- -requently they have a propensity to swallow earth, or any kind of rubbish. This is sup- posed to arise from the irritation of an acid in the stomach; and medicines of the absorbent Kind are recommended for its removal; par- ticularly chalk, mixed with chaff or cut hay. ^ls very probable, however, that the for- St" °^f ^add 'ⁿ ^the ^stomach depends upon aetoihty, or some diseased condition of that B



	H)
	H)	MATERIA MEDICA.
		MATERIA MEDICA.

tible of cold. Ventilation is, therefore, aa object of great importance in the construc- tion of stables; and is most conveniently done by making proper apertures in the ceiling, communicating with the external air; and by means of windows, adapted to the form and size of the stable. It is a bad method of ventilation to leave the upper part of the racks open, so as to communicate with the roof of the building, as a current of air is thereby produced in the stall, from the ready ascent of the light air, over the horse's head. The litter should not be suffered to remain in the stall during the day, but be removed to some open place and well shaken-, that the ammoniacal vapours it affords may be thoroughly dissipated. Should it be ne- cessary for a horse to lie down in the day- time, he should be allowed fresh straw. ALKALIES. Alkalies form one of the classes of saline bodies, and are of three kinds : 1st, The vegetable alkali, kali or pot- ash. 2d, The mineral alkali, soda or na- tron : and the volatile alkali, or ammonia. Each of these will be described under the following heads: kali, natron, and ammonia : which names are employed by the London



	12
	12	MATERIA MEDICA.
		MATERIA MEDICA.

dish or brown colour, quite opaque, and has a less disagreeable smell than the others; it sells at a high price, and is therefore not unfrequently adulterated. I have been so often disappointed in the effect of socotrine aloes, or rather what is commonly sold under that name, that I now always use the Barba- does, which cannot be so easily adulterated without detection. Balbadoes Aloes is brought from Bar- badoes, and has been generally considered as a rough medicine, very liable to produce griping, and other unpleasant effects ; but I have always found it a safe and efficacious purgative. Barbadoes aloes* is of a darker colour than the former kind, less brittle, and of a stronger and more disagreeable smell. It is certainly more active than the socotrine; and, as far as my experience goes, more certain in its operation: nor have I ever found it produce those dangerous ef- fectis that have been attributed to it, when given in a proper dose, and when the horse is not neglected during its operation : in- * At this time (December 14, 1805) Socotrine Aloes are at »:>oi.vt the same price or cheaper than Barbadoes.



		VETERINARY MATERIA MEDICA: CONTAINIHG AN ACCURATE DESCRIPTION OF THE VARIOUS SUBSTANCES EMPLOYED IN VETERINARY MEDICINE; WITH THEIR PARTICULAR EFF1CTS ON THE BODY OF THE HORSE: WITH OCCASIONAL OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES OF THAT ANIMAL.

			A2



		PREFACE

	TO THE FIRST EDITION.

Within these few years only, has the Veterinary Art acquired a distinct ap- pellation, and a solid foundation in this country, Receipts, handed down by traditionary skill, in which ingre- dients were accumulated withoutjudg- ment or iscrimination, constituted the principles and practice of what was termed Farriery; a name which it de- rived from the occupation of the per- sons who practised it, who were, in general, smiths or workers in iron� Ferrarius, Ferrum* * Farriers were formerly termed Ferrers, which is certainly a better appellation. A3



		vi PREFACE. To attempt to distinguish the causes of the horse's diseases, was far beyond their little skill; and in general, ran- dom trials of the few burning medi- cines in their list, formed their boasted practice. 'Thescience at one time began to rise above the order of smiths, and attracted the notice of medical practitioners;* butit was not hereby greatly improved: they were not aware of the difference that has since been found to exist be- tween the structure and ceconomy of the horse, and that of the human sub- ject ; nor had they any idea that this dissimilarity required much considera- tion with respect to disease, and the effect of medicine. Hence they were led to bring the therapeutics and pa- thology of the human body to veteri- * See Dr.Bracken's Treatise on Farriery; also Gib- son's, and Bartlett's.



			viii PREFACE.

		is now laid; and, as long as scientific men continue to study and practise the veterinary art, it must necessarily be in a progressive state of improvement. Notuiihstauding many books hayg already been published concerning the diseases of horse, the therapeutical part, or what relates to the medicines proper for his diseases, has not been hitherto explained. Such a work ap- peared to the author a desicieratum in the veterinary art, and has induced him to add the present volume to his Com- pendium of the Diseases, &c. of which the indulgent public has already de- manded a tenth edition, Having thus ventured on untrodden ground, he had no guide to lessen the labour of the at- tempt ; but, b}' numerous and attentive trials, from the author's experience and particular attention to this subject, he trusts he has been able to furnish a



			PREFACE. IX

		volume not wholly unacceptable even to the experienced practitioner. It has been fche author's aim to explain the general properties of the various sub- stances employed in medicine, accu- rately describing their particular effects on the body of the horse, both in health and disease; the doses in which they may be oiven, their composition, and in short every thing that has any relation to them. This will be comprehended in the Materia Medica, or first part of the book: in tb Pharmacopaia are com- prised, directionsforformingthe various compositions in the most convenient and efficacious manner ;�the whole forming a system of therapeutics, in- structing the inexperienced how to dis- tinguish the purest and most genuine drugs, and to compound them in such a way, as will enable him to combat with success the various diseases to which horses are liable.



			X

		PREFACE TO THE THIRD EDITION. WHEN the second edition of the Ve- terinary Materia Medica went to the press, the author was prevented, by severe illness, from adding the result of his experience since the publication of the first. The present edition, how- ever, has been carefully revised; and he hopes that some useful additions will be found in it.



		il

ADVERTISEMENT. Mr. WHITE may be consulted on the Diseases of Horses, either personally or by letter, at his Veterinary Dispensary, Holloway-street, Exeter, (if by letter, the fee is half a guinea; personally, five shillings,) where all kinds of Horse and Cattle- Medicines are prepared and sold. Convenient Horse Medicine-Chests, containing a few neces- sary Instruments, may also be purchased at a short notice.

	Of the Publishers of this Work, may be had the Eleventh Edition of the first Volume, con- taining, A COMPENDIUM OF THE VETERINARY ART; or an accurate Description of the Diseases of the Horse, and their Mode of Treatment; the Anatomy and Physiology of the Foot; and the Principles and Practice of Shoeing. Illustrated by numerous Plates. With Observations on Sta- ble-Management, Feeding, Exercise, and Con- dition�Price Is. Boards.



		kii

Also, PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS on some Important Diseases of the Horse; on the Pre- vention and Treatment of Lameness; and on the Precautions to be observed in Purchasing Horses, being a Third Volume of the work.�Price 6*. And, Very recently published as a Fourth Volume, but sold separately, OBSERVATIONS on the Diseases of Cows, Sheep, Swine, and Dogs. Also, Particular Di- rections for performing the most important Ope- rations in Farriery. Illustrated by several Plates. And Remarks on the Epidemic Catarrh, com- monly called Distemper, in Horses. With sorne additional Observations on certain Diseases of the Horse's Eye.

	Jn the Press, by the same Author, A NEW VETERINARY DICTIONARY, for the Pocket.



		5
	NITROUS ACID.	5
	NITROUS ACID.

This, like the preceding, is used only as an external application in veterinary practice ; though it might probably be employed in- ternally with good effect, were it not for the same inconvenience that attends the exhibi- tion of the vitriolic acid. Nitrous acid, in its concentrated or strong- est state, is a powerful caustic ; and when mixed with water, or unctuous substances, it forms many efficacious lotions and oint- ments for various external complaints. Al- most every metal may be dissolved in this acid, with many of which it forms very use- ful caustics and escharotics; with silver it makes lunar caustic (nitrated silver); and with quicksilver, red precipitate (red ni- trated quicksilver).�See Caustics, Escharo- tics, and Detergents. That useful medicine termed nitre is comp_osed of this acid and the vegetable alkali or potash (kali). The metallic com- binations of nitrous acid may be employed either i� _a liquid or solid state ; they may also be diluted with water, or mixed with unctuous substances, to form detergent oint- ments of any degree of strength that may be required. ^J



	6
		MATERIA MEDICA.


Strong or concentrated nitrous acid is of a deep yellow colour, approaching to orange, and emits suffocating fumes of the same colour. When water is added, the yellow colour is destroyed, and it ceases to emit fumes: the same effect may be produced merely by application of heat; in this state it is termed nitric acid. Aqua-fortis is made by mixing nitrous acid with about an equal quantity of water. Muriatic Acid, or Spirit of Salt. Tllis acid is obtained by distilling common salt with vitriolic acid. Spirit of Salt is generally of a light yellow colour, and when exposed to the air emits white Suffocating fumes. This acid is some- times used as a caustic, to destrojr excres- cences or fungous flesh, or to cleanse foul ulcers; and being considerably weaker than the two former, may be applied in its con- centrated state without inconvenience. Muriatic Acid is a component part of se- veral useful preparations, among which are calomel, sublimate {muriate of quicksilver), and crude sal ammoniac (muriate of am- monia). When muriatic acid is distilled with a mineral termed manganese, it ae-



	8
	8	MATERIA MBDiCA.

Tartareous Acid, or Acid of Tartar. Cream of Tartar consists principally of this acid, having a small proportion of vegetable alkali, or potash {kali), combined with it. Though Cream of Tartar has been found useful in human medicine, it has no percep- tible effect upon the horse, and I believe is very seldom used by experienced veterina- rians. Writers on farriery have recom- mended cream of Tartar as a necessary in- gredient in purgative medicine, to correct a dangerous acrimony supposed to reside in (does: this opinion, however, is unfounded. Aloes, if not given too largely, is an inno- cent purgative; and were it otherwise, cream of Tartar has not the power of cor- recting acrimony. It has been recommended also in febrile complaints, mixed with infu- sion of senna, lenitive electuary, &c. as a cooling drink. But according to my expe- rience, cream of Tartar, as well as lenitive electuary and senna, are absolutely useless in veterinary medicine. Cream of Tartar is found in an impure state, adhering to the sides and bottoms of vessels in which wine has been kept. AIR. The health of horses very muck



		TARTAREOUS ACID�AIR. J) depends upon the salubrity of the air in which they are kept; and it is probable that many of their diseases arise from the little attention that is paid to the ventilation of stables. It is said that even the glanders, a fatal and contagious disease, has been generated by confining horses in an impure ^au\ It is a common practice with grooms, particularly those who fancy themselves pro- foundly skilled in the art of farriery, to stop every crevice they can find in the stable, so that pure air is with difficulty admitted; and the noxious vapours arising from the litter, from perspiration and respiration, are in great measure confined. Horses thus situ- ated must necessarily suffer in a greater or less degree ; and though the air may not be so contaminated as to occasion fatal diseases, " is sufficiently so to debilitate the consti- tution, and thereby lay a foundation for nu- merous complaints, as well as to create local diseases, such as inflamed eyes, obstinate coughs, and perhaps momiblindness, as it is termed. Horses that have weak eyes and lungs are sure to be injured by this treat- � Another inconvenience arising from ", is that of rendering a horse very suscep- b 5



		13
	ALOES.	13
	ALOES.

deed, every kind of aloes is liable to pro- duce even fatal consequences if given too largely, or if the horse be treated improperly while under their effect. There is a pecu- liarity in the horse's intestines which ren- ders them more liable to be injured by pur- gatives of every kind, than those of any other domestic animal: cathartic medicines should therefore be always prepared by per- sons of judgment and experience. A late writer on Cattle Medicine asserts that the Barbacloes Aloes is very rough, and often dangerous in its operation ; and thinks his opinion confirmed by an experiment made on his own stomach. I can confidently assert, that I have given many hun- dreds of doses since the first publication of this book, and that not one single case has occurred in which it operated in a rough or unpleasant manner. I have also given an extensive trial to the Socotriae and Cape Aloes, and again found them very weak and uncertain in their effect. The former are therefore pre- ferred, on account of their superior strength ; the common dose for a hunter being 4 or 5 drams, joined with soap or kali, &e.; 'his dose is equal to 7 or 8 drams of Socotrine Aloes; their purgative _v,alu_y being �f _tlie _same _ki,,_d> _thougIl _a _givenweight of the former contains more of it than the same weight �of the latter. It may _De proper to add, that my experiments have been made on the liorse, and not on man. twnce the above was written, I have many times given the Cape Aloes a fair trial, as well as the Socotrine, &c, and find my first opinion on this subject so perfectly confirmed by expe- rience that I never will use any other kind of Aloes than the Barbadoes.�Sept. 1813.



			14 MATERIA MEDICA.

		Cape Aloes is rather transparent, and very brittle : it is easily powdered, in which state it is of a bright yellow colour ; the odour arising from it is not so strong as the Barbadoes, but rather stronger and less agreeable than the socotrine. This kind is sold at a much lower price than the others, but is so weak and uncertain in its effect, that it is seldom employed in veterinary medicine. The dose of socotrine aloes is from five drams to nine; Barbadoes, from four drams to six; and of the Cape, from six to ten drams. Aloes generally operates more speedily when joined with soap or either of the fixed alkalies. (See Alkalies.) Aloes is sometimes given as an alterative in the dose of one or two drams. It is also an ingredient in Fryar's balsam, and com- pound tincture of myrrh; preparations often used by farriers. (See Clathartics, Vulnera- ries, Alteratives.) ALTERATIVES are medicines that act very gradually upon the constitution, and therefore require to be continued for some time. The medicines most commonly used as alteratives in farriery are antimony, nitre,



		ALOES�ALTERATIVES. 15 sulphur, and resin; these are generally given together, particularly the three former. Though a mixture of these may some- times produce good effects, it is by no means an eligible medicine : indeed, I have seen it given frequently, but have very sel- dom observed it do any good; and in the few cases where it appeared beneficial, na- ture, perhaps, had no inconsiderable share in the operation. It is commonly supposed that the good ef- fects of alteratives arise from certain changes they produce in the blood : it is more pro- bable, however, that they act only on the solids ; and though their action is scarcely perceptible, they will be found upon a care- ful examination to produce some sensible effect, either upon the bowels, the kidneys, or the skin ; increasing the action of those parts, and causing them to secrete their respective juices or fluids more copiously. Another effect of alteratives, is to augment the vigour or tone of the system. From this view of the subject it appears necessary to divide alteratives into four classes; viz. laxa- tives, diuretics, diaphoretics, and tonics. Laxative Alteratives are useful in



			ALTERATIVES. *7

		Diuretic Alteratives are composed of nitre, resin, soap, and turpentine. Diuretic alteratives are employed in swellings of the legs and other parts, or as a preventive, in horses that are subject to such swellings. They are given also to improve the coat and general condition of the animal. Though not so effectual in many cases as the preceding, they are certainly very con- venient and innocent, and produce so little disturbance in the body, that a horse may continue his work while taking them, with- out the least danger, even in the winter sea- son. Nor is there any trouble in giving them ; as a horse readily eats them, when in the form of a powder, with his coin. The laxative alterative has not this advantage ; the aloes, of which it is composed, being extremely bitter, and therefore requires to be given in the form of a ball. Diaphoretic Alteratives are composed of medicines that act on the skin, gradually increasing the insensible perspiration, and giving a smoothness and gloss to the coat. The most effectual medicines of this class, are the preparations of antimony (see Anti- mony) ; but these may be rendered more



	■20
	■20	MATERIA MEDICA.
		MATERIA MEDICA.

Burnt Alum is made by putting any quantity of alum in an iron ladle, or corrr- mon firepan, and keeping it over a gentle fire, until its watery parts are evaporated, and it is converted into a light and easily pulverable substance. If exposed to a strong beat for some time, the alum is decomposed, and of course useless. ALKOHOL. See Spirit rectified. ALLSPICE. Jamaica Pepper. This is seldom employed in veterinary medicine, being very inferior to many cheaper medicines of the same class: its es- sential oil, however, possesses a considerable stimulant power, and may be employed in the composition of cordial medicines. The dose is from twenty drops to half a dram AMBER. This is what naturalists term a bitumen. It affords only one preparation that is used in veterinary practice,�an es- sential oil, of a dark colour, and very disa- greeable odour,�which is employed as an embrocation in strains, bruises, &c. gene- rally mixed with other oil, such as oil ef el- der, turpentine, &c. It is given internally as an antispasmodic, in doses from two drams to half an ounce. For medical purposes



		AMBER�AMMONIA. 21 this essential oil is rectified, whereby it be- comes of a lighter colour, and loses in some degree its unpleasant smell; but it does not appear to be rendered more efficacious. There is a salt of amber kept in the shops, Procured from amber by sublimation, but it ^ls ^never used in veterinary practice. AMMONIA. This is the modern term ^or ^wnat was named volatile alkali, and is Procurdd either from bones or sai ammoniac. ** >s kept in the shops, both in a solid and a 'quid form. Strictly speaking, pure ammo- ^nia ^exists only in the form of gas, or air; but water will absorb a considerable quantity ^thls ^air; and when saturated with it be- comes a violent stimulant, capable of in- naming and even blistering the skin. This ¹⁸ ^termed water of pure ammonia, or strong ^sPmt nj sal ammoniac, and is extremely useful in dispersing indolent tumours, if mixed with an equal quantity of sweet oil, m which camphor has been dissolved. It is * good application also in swellings of the of st ^SmCWS °^f °^ther ^partS' ⁱⁿ ^consecl^uenceo s rains or bruises. Water of pure ammo- ma is too strong for internal use; but when ammonia is by _a chemical process combined



			U2 MATEaiA MKBJCA.

		with carbonic acid, or fixed air, it assumes a solid form, and is rendered sufficiently mild for internal use. In this state it is named prepared ammonia, volatile sal ammoniac, or smelling salt, being much used for smelling- bottles, as its quick pungent odour is well calculated to remove faintness. Prepared Ammonia is an excellent sti- mulant and cordial, and may be given in doses from half a dram to two drams. I have seen it very serviceable in the latter stages of fever, when debility is the leading symptom. When prepared ammonia is dissolved in water to saturation, it forms water of mild ammonia, or common spirit of sal ammoniac; when distilled with spirit and some aromatic oils, spirit of sal volatile, or compound spirit of ammonia: and if assafxtida be added, the feetid spirit of ammonia is produced, which is an excellent antispasmodic. (See Assa- foetida.) The Salt and Spirit of Hartshorn are nearly the same as the prepared, and the water of ammonia; but being distilled from bones or stag horns, which are of the same nature, they are slightly impregnated with



		ANTHELMINTICS�ANTIMONY. " 27 the vegetable bitters; such as bark, worm- wood, camomile, &c. When worms are dis- covered in the horse's dung, after a fair trial has been given to mercurial purgatives (es- pecially if he appears to be weak, and inca- pable of much work), it would be adviseable to give tonic and cordial preparations, with a generous diet: but whenever this is done, there must be proportionate exercise. ANTIMONY. This is a heavy, shining, brittle mineral, somewhat like black lead when powdered, but of a darker colour. It is common in Germany and France. A small quantity is found in Cornwall, but not suf- ficiently pure for medicinal purposes. Antimony is composed of a metallic sub- stance termed regulus of antimony, and sul- phur. It is given as an alterative, in doses ot an ounce or more, to improve the coat and condition of horses: some give it to destroy worms; but it does not appear to possess any power of that kind. A variety of useful preparations is made from antimony, many °f which are more efficacious than the mi- neral itself; among these are liver of anti- mony (sulphurated oxyd of antimony), anti- momal poicder, which is said to be the same c2

			j



			28 MATERIA MEDICA.

		as James's powder, emetic tartar (tartarized antimony), golden sulphur of antimony, and Vermes mineral,�each of these will be de- scribed in its proper place. ANTISEPTICS are medicines which pre- vent putridity, or remove it if already be- gun. The most efficacious are bark and other bitters; opium, wine, ether, ammonia, and camphor. Horses do not appear to be subject to those fevers which, in the human system, are termed putrid; so that these medicines are not often required. In gangrene, or mortification of the external parts, however, they are very useful. The efficacy of these medicines seems to depend' on their tonic or' strengthening quality; as putridity in the living body is generally the effect of a high degree of debility. ANTISPASMODICS are medicines which possess the power of allaying inordinate or painful motions in the system, particularly those involuntary contractions in parts which are naturally subject to the command of the will. Medical writers divide antispasmodics into two kinds; viz. stimulants^ and sedatives.



		*�J.V*
	ANTISEPTICS�ARSENIC.	*�J.V*
	ANTISEPTICS�ARSENIC.

1 o the former belong arsenic, preparations or copper, zinc, and iron; also ammonia, ether, essential oils, &c. The latter com- prehends opium, musk, camphor, and all the vegetable narcotics. Medicines of the foetid kind, such as gal- hanum, assa fcetida, &c. have also an anti- spasmodic quality. When spasm arises from irritation, seda- tives are to be given ; but when it depends merely on debility, tonics are evidently proper. APERIENTS. Opening medicines. (See Laxatives and Cathartics.) AQUAFORTIS. Weak nitrous acid. (See Acid Nitrous.) ARABIC GUM. (See Gum Arabic.) ARSENIC. There are two kinds of ar- senic kept; the white, and the yellow. The J" is a combination of white arsenic and sulphur, either natural or artificial, varying in colour according to the proportion of sul- phur, which, when considerable, gives it an orange or red colour; it is then called real- ^^and ^used as a pigment only. White arsenic is obtained in the process roasting certain ores. The arsenic sub-



		ARSENIC�ASSA ^FCETIDA. ^ casion great disturbance in the stomach and bowels. In smaller doses it seems perfectly innocent. When arsenic is employed as a tonic or strengthening medicine, it should be finely powdered, and mixed into a ball with aniseed, ginger, or other cordials. At the same time, attention should be paid to the horse's diet, &c. It is necessary to give some mucilaginous liquid, such as water- gruel, or infusion of linseed, just before the arsenic, that it may not act upon the sto- mach too violently. (See Balls.) The cases in which arsenic is said to be most beneficial, are those where horses be- come weak and emaciated without any ap- parent cause; sweating with the most mo- derate exercise, and almost incapable of doing a day's work. I have tried its powers as a vermifuge; and though in some cases it appeared to de- stroy the worms, it was by no means uni- form in its effect. In one case, where it was given by way of experiment to a glandered horse, it appeared to have destroyed some botts, which were found dead in the sto- mach. ASSA FCETIDA, a gummy and resinous



		ATTENUANTS�BALLS. 33 m giving balls, without using the instrument termed a balling iron: but there are some horses that will not take a ball by any other means. In giving a ball, the horse's tongue is drawn out on the off or right side, and held firmly with the left hand, while with the right the ball is quickly passed over the tongue into the pharynx, or top of the gullet: the moment the right hand is withdrawn from the mouth the tongue is let loose, and the ball generally swallowed. The balling iron is so contrived as to keep the mouth open, while the ball is forced into the throat; it is then immediately withdrawn. Balls should be made at the time they are wanted; as by keeping they often become so hard as to be almost insoluble in the sto- mach, sometimes.passing through the intes- tines unchanged : by keeping they also lose much of their strength, particularly when the ingredients are evaporable in the com- mon temperature of the atmosphere, which is the case with camphor, ammonia, essen- tial oils, &c. But the most serious inconve- nience which arises from giving balls that have been kept until they become very hard, is, that they are liable to stick in the c5



		85
	BALSAMS.	85
	BALSAMS.

Very expensive; whereas Venice turpentine is much cheaper, and I believe equally ef- ficacious. Canada Balsam is a strong diuretic in the dose of one ounce or more: in smaller doses it has been recommended in chronic cough, and diseases of the lungs. Balsam of Copaiva, or Capivy, pos- sesses nearly the same properties as the pre- ceding. It has been often employed with success in the flatulent colic or gripes: it has been given also in chronic cough with good effect. The dose is about one ounce or more. Balsam of Gilead is nearly similar to the capivy, but more pleasant. Many virtues have been attributed to these balsams by medical writers : they were supposed to heal ulceration of the lungs, kidneys, or other .internal parts, and to be powerful corrobo- rants. They do not appear, however, to possess these qualities, nor do they seem to differ much from turpentine in their medi- cal virtues. (See Turpentine.) Balsam of I'eku. 1 his is of a different kind from the former balsams, being more stimulating, and better calculated as a re-



	3S
	3S	MATERIA MEDIC A.

The dose is from six drams to one ounce and a half or two ounces. There are three sorts of bark: the pale or Jesuifs, the red, and the yellow. The first is considered the best, and is most com- monly used ; but the others do not greatly differ in their effects. Oak bai^k would pro- bably be found an useful substitute for Pe- ruvian bark. By boiling bark in water a considerable time, its virtues are said to be considerably diminished. BARLEY is sometimes used as food for horses ; but is less fit for that purpose than oats or beans: I have known it tried as a substitute for the former, when it was found difficult of digestion, and productive of many complaints: if horses, however, be accustomed to it gradually, it proves very nutritious and useful. BATHING. A remedy seldom employed in the diseases of horses. I once saw an obstinate case of costiveness removed by driving tiie animal into a river. It is said, that lameness, arising from strains, may be cured by making the horse swim; but I am inclised to doubt the efficacy of this prac- tice. The warm bath would probably be



		BARLEY�BENZOIN. 39 found serviceable in spasmodic complaints, if it could be easily managed. BAY-LEAVES are used only as an in- gredient in fomentations. BEANS are often used as an article of diet. If gi_ven moderately to horses that work hard, they prove extremely useful and invigorating; but to such as are not much worked they often do harm, by disposing the system to inflammatory complaints. BENZOIN, or Gum Benjamin. A con- crete ^resinous substance of a yellowish co- lour, inclining to pink, and variegated with small white masses. By exposure to a strong heat, it gives out an extremely light flowery substance, which is termed flowers of Benja- min. This is beautifully white and fra- grant, and used in medicine in coughs, and other complaints of the lungs. In veteri- nary medicine neither the resin nor flower are employed, nor do I know any disease in which they are likely to be of use. The former is an ingredient in the trau- matic or Fryar's balsam, now called com- pound tincture of Benjamin ; and the latter is employed in making paregoric elixir, or camphorated tincture of opium.



			40 MATERIA MEDICA.

		BIRTHWORT. This root, though for- merly celebrated, is now very rarely em- ployed. Farriers sometimes use it as a sti- mulant, but its powers are slight, and it is now superseded by more valuable medi- cines. BISTORT. The roots of this plant are considered the most powerful of the vege- table astringents: they have been recom- mended as a styptic, to restrain hemorrhages, but ought never to be depended upon for this purpose. Many imaginary virtues have been attributed to this plant: perhaps as a powerful astringent it may be useful in cer- tain cases of diarrhoea, particularly that to which horned cattle are subject. The dose is from half an ounce to one ounce, and may be given either in powder, or boiled in wa- ter and made into a drench. BLEEDING. This operation is frequently required in the diseases of horses: and if em- ployed seasonably, and to a sufficient extent, is the most efficacious remedy we are ac- quainted with. When a horse appears dull and heavy, and indifferent about his food, by bleeding we often prevent a fever. If a horse is bled at the commencement of a cold,



			BIRTHWORT�BLEEDING. 41

		the complaint generally proves moderate, and of short continuance. In all cases of in- ternal inflammation, or symptomatic fever, bleeding i_s the most essential remedy, pro- vided the operation be performed at an early period, and the blood drawn in sufficient quantity. In such cases I have often taken away five quarts, and repeated the operation the following day when it appeared neces- sary. By bleeding copiously at first, those formidable diseases are crushed at once; while by suffering them to proceed or be- come at all violent, which they will do un- less this practice is adopted (or if only a small quantity of blood is drawn), they ge- nerally prove fatal: nor will bleeding then be of any service. Bleeding is either general or local; that *^s, it is done either so as to affect the system in general, or a particular part only. For general bleeding, the jugular or neck vein ^l& most convenient. When the vein is firmly pressed with the fingers of the left hand, the blood is pre- vented from descending, and that part of the vein which is above the fingers is con- ^Slderably distended, and becomes very con-



	42
	42	MATERIA MEDICA.

spicuous. In this state it may be easily opened with a lancet held in the right hand. The vein will continue to bleed as long as the pressure below is continued. Farriers bleed with a fleam, which, though a clumsy method of operating, is certainly safer in unskilful hands. In topical bleed- ing, a vein is chosen as near as possible to the affected part, or the vessels covering the part are opened: in the inflammation of the eye, for example, relief is often obtain- ed by scarifying the inner surface of the eye-lid, op by opening a small vein which is easily seen going from the inner corner of the eye towards the nose. A graduated tin vessel, capable of con- taining five quarts, is very convenient for the purpose of receiving the blood ; every jpint being marked on the inside of the ves- sel, so that the quantity of blood that is taken off may be exactly known. The blood should always be preserved, that we may judge from its appearance of the nature of the disease, and whether it is proper or not to repeat the operation. When it continues fluid a considerable time, it denotes an in- flammatory state of the system. Should a