Syrupus Asafoetida.—Syrup of Asafetida.
Related entry: Asafoetida (U. S. P.)—Asafoetida
Preparation.—Take of asafetida, 1 ounce; boiling water, 1 pint; sugar, 2 pounds. Triturate the asafetida in a mortar with a portion of the boiling water until a uniform paste is formed, then gradually add the remainder of the water, strain, and add the sugar, dissolving it with a gentle heat (R. Petty, Amer. Jour. Pharm., Vol. XXIV, p. 319).
Description.—Good asafetida contains a portion of volatile oil, which would be dissipated were much heat employed in the solution of the sugar. Boiling water instead of cold is employed to take up more of the gum-resin which is permanently dissolved or suspended by the aid of sugar. This syrup is nearly white when first made, but gradually assumes a pinkish tinge; it is quite permanent, keeping for several months without any material change, and has the advantage of being entirely free from alcohol, which is often objectionable with asafetida mixtures.
Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—This is an excellent form for the administration of asafetida, being prompt in its action, and not so stimulating as the tincture. The dose is 1 or 2 tablespoonfuls, repeated 3 or 4 times a day. If used in enema, 2 to 4 fluid ounces may be injected into the rectum at one time. Other antispasmodics may be combined with it, as fluid extracts of black cohosh, blue cohosh, ladies'-slipper root, scullcap, valerian, etc., according to indications.
