Laurus Sassafras. (Sassafras.)

A very good preparation of the Sassafras for office use, is a tincture of the bark of the root by percolation, using dilute alcohol or whisky. It forms a pleasant vehicle for many remedies, when we desire the gently stimulant and astringent action of the remedy. Tincture of Podophyllum added to it, in the proportion of ʒij. to ℥iv., in teaspoonful doses four times a day, forms an admirable alterative.

In the treatment of secondary syphilis, especially when manifesting itself in disease of the skin, the infusion will be found preferable. In this case I would direct an infusion of Sassafras with a small portion of Podophyllum, ℥ss. of the first, grs. x. of the second, to the pint of water, three times a day. It may be associated with the vapor bath, spirit-vapor bath, or sulphur bath in stubborn cases.

Specific Medication and Specific Medicines, 1870, was written by John M. Scudder, M.D.