612. Os Sepiae.—Cuttlefish Bone.
Botanical name:
SOURCE.—Se'pia officina'lis is the species from which this calcareous bone is obtained; it inhabits the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
DESCRIPTION.—A white, flattish, oval-oblong bone about 100 mm. (4 in.) in length; exterior hard and smooth, interior porous and friable; inodorous; taste somewhat saline and earthy.
CONSTITUENTS.—Mostly calcium carbonate, with from 10 to 15 per cent. of animal matter and a very small percentage of sodium chloride, calcium phosphate, and magnesia.
USES.—An antacid. Extensively employed in the manufacture of tooth powders, and used to some extent as a polishing agent.
