Ammonia, or Sal Volatile, is an antispasmodic antacid, stimulant and
diaphoretic.
_Used externally_, combined with oil, it forms a cheap and useful
liniment, but it should be dissolved in _proof_ spirit before the oil
is added. One part of this salt, and three parts of extract of
belladonna, mixed and spread upon leather, makes an excellent plaster
for relieving rheumatic pains. As a local stimulant it is well known,
as regards its effects in hysterics, faintness, and lassitude, when
applied to the nose, as common smelling salts.
It is used _internally_ as an adjunct to infusion of gentian in
dyspepsia or indigestion, and in moderate doses in gout.
_Dose_, from five to fifteen grains. _Caution_.--Overdoses act as a
narcotic and irritant poison.
[TO-MORROW, IS HIMSELF A FEAST FOR WORMS.]