Ammonium, Per sulphide of

Syn. Boyle’s Fuming-liquor , Hoffman’s Vol′atile spirit of sulphur , .; Ammo′′niæ perhydrosul′phas , A. per hydro sulph ure′tum , . Authorities differ as to the constitution of this liquid, which, since its introduction by Beguin in 1650, has pa ed under more ‘aliases’ than perhaps any other preparation. Its precise position amongst the ammonia-compounds is still undecided. Prep. 1. (Beguin.) Sulphur, 1 lb; quick-lime, 1 ⁄ 2 lb; sal ammoniac, 4 oz.; mix and distil. 2. (Boyle.) Sulphur and sal ammoniac, of each, 5 oz.; quick-lime, 6 oz.; as last. 3. (Liebig.) Agitate the common hydrosulphate of ammonia with pure sulphur, until the latter ceases to be di olved; and, after repose, decant the clear liquid. Prop., . An orange-yellow, fuming, fœtid liquid, of an oily consistence, having the characteristics of the common sulphydrate in a remarkable degree. It may prove an excellent medicine. “Useful for wounds and ulcers.” (Beguin.) Diluted with three parts of spirit of wine, it formed the LIQUOR ANTIPODAG′RICUS of F. Hoffman; of which we are told that about 30 drops acted as a strong sudorific; and applied externally, mixed with camphor, “it relieved pain like a charm.” (Hoffman.) The sulphides of ammonium are now scarcely ever employed as remedies.