The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c4.s23.2

c4.s23.2

THE ashes of a number of plants containing more or less potash are employed both externally and internally. A list of these plants used in the preparation of caustic pastes, has been already given in the Introduction (see page 21). It remains now to notice the preparations of alkaline ashes for internal use. A solution of the ashes of these plants or of such of them as are available, is prepared by mixing them with six parts of water and straining the fluid through cloth for twenty-one times, that is, the strained fluid is poured over the ashes twenty-one times in succession, and made to percolate through them. Lastly the fluid is allowed to stand and the clear solution drained off. This alkaline solution is given in doses of one to three drachms in dyspepsia, ascites, enlargements of the abdominal viscera, calculous affections, etc. It is regarded as laxative, diuretic and antacid.