Hoffmann's Balsam

HOFFMANN'S BALSAM, DROPS, ELIXIR. H. balsam, vital balsam, Mixtura oleoso-balsamica, Balsamum vitae Hoffmanni (Ph VII), was first proposed by F. Hoffmann (F. Hoffmann, 1660-1742) in Halle; it consists of essential oils of orange blossom, bergamot, clove, lemon, rosemary, and thyme - 1 part each, Peru balsam-4 parts, 90° alcohol-240 parts; a transparent liquid, brownish-yellow in color, with a pleasant odor, specific gravity 0.829-0.836. It is taken internally as a stimulant, for intestinal spasms, and for nervous phenomena (10-20 drops), for rubbing in rheumatism and neuralgia, and as a mouthwash and refreshing rub. H. drops (Hoffmann's drops), ether with alcohol, Spiritus aethereus, Liquor anodynus mineralis Hoffmanni, Spiritus vitrioli dulcis (Ph VII), consists of 1 part of pure ether and 2 parts of 90° alcohol. A liquid with specific gravity 0.795-0.800, volatile, colorless, transparent, of neutral reaction and burning taste, easily flammable. It is kept in well-stoppered bottles. Often used as an intoxicating agent (etherism, etheromania). Used in medicine as a stimulant and reviving agent, as well as a sedative for various pains in the abdominal and pelvic organs: internally-10-30 drops, externally-for smelling, in the form of subcutaneous injections, rubs, and enemas (e.g., for fainting, etc.). H. elixir, complex orange elixir, Elixir Aurantiorum compositum, Elixir viscerale Hoffmanni, Vinum amarum (Ph VII), is prepared as follows: 6 parts of orange peel, 2 parts of cinnamon bark, and 1 part of potassium carbonate are steeped for 8 days in 50 parts of a mixture of 2 parts of 70° alcohol and 3 parts of water. Before Ph VII, sherry was used instead of this mixture. After 8 days, the liquid is decanted, the residue is pressed, and in the infusion are dissolved extracts of wormwood, cascara, gentian, and trifolium-1 part each. After this, 5% of pure talc is added, the liquid is thoroughly shaken and left in a cool place for 10 days to settle. Then the liquid is decanted from the sediment and filtered. The elixir is transparent, dark brown in color, with an aromatic odor and bitter taste. It is prescribed to stimulate appetite and for diarrhea, 25-50 drops.