Gargil

A distemper affecting the heads of geese. Gargle, ( gar'gl,) v. a. [Fr. gargouiller, to dabble, to paddle, from Lat. gurgulio, the gullet; Gr. gargareōn, formed from the sound.] To wash, as the throat and mouth, with a liquid preparation, which is kept from descending into the stomach by a gentle expiration of air. -n. (Med.) A lotion or wash for the throat. It is used by taking a mouthful of the liquid, and then throwing back the head, by which it is pa ed into the throat, where, by expelling air from the lungs, it is agitated and made to wash all parts of the inner surface. Gargles are extremely useful in various diseases of the throat, and differ in their composition according to the purpose which they are intended to serve. In order to allay inflammation or reduce swelling, warm water with a little vinegar is the best that can be used. When a stimulating effect is required, a mixture of infusion of Peruvian bark, port wine, and tincture of capsicum, to promote suppuration, or barley-water and infusion of linseed used warm; and, as a pure astringent, a decoction of Peruvian bark, with alum or borax, will be found useful.