Decoction of Barley (Compound.)

Syn. Pec′toral decoction , Fe′ver drink ; Decoctum pectora′le , Ptisan′a commu′nis , Dec. hor′dei compos′itum (Ph. L.), Mistu′ra hor′dei (Ph. E.), L. Prep. 1. (Ph. L.) Decoction of barley (simple), 1 quart; figs (sliced) and raisins (stoned), of each 2 1 ⁄ 2 oz.; fresh liquorice (sliced), 5 dr.; water, 1 pint; boil to a quart, and strain. 2. (Ph. E.) Pearl barley, 2 1 ⁄ 2 oz.; water, 4 1 ⁄ 2 pints; boil to 3 pints; add figs and raisins, of each 2 1 ⁄ 2 oz.; liquorice root, 5 dr.; water, 1 pint; and boil to 2 pints, as before. Obs. The above are used as demulcents in fevers, phthisis, strangury, ., taken ad libitum . They are slightly laxative, and when this would be an objection to their use, a few drops of laudanum may be added. Mixed with an equal quantity of decoction of bark, barley-water forms an excellent gargle in cynanche malign a (ulcerated sore throat), and, with a like quantity of milk and a little sugar, a good substitute for the breast in dry nursing infants. It is, also, often acidulated with lemon juice or sulphuric acid, and sweetened (Decoctum horde i acidulatum). Gum Arabic, 4 dr., and nitre, 1 dr., to each pint, is a common addition in gonorrhœa. Cream of tartar, 1 dr., is occasionally added to render it more aperient.