SODA WATER

This common and refreshing beverage is, as usualljr prepared, a supersaturated solution of carbonic acid gas in water. True soda water was formerly prepared (and is still by some manufacturers) for medical use, chiefly as a remedy for heartburn, and certain forms of dyspepsia and calculous complaints; and consisted of one, two, or three drachms of carbonate of soda, di olved in a pint of water highly impregnated with carbonic acid. This is often a valuable remedy; but would sometimes be attended by mischievous results, especially if indulged in to the extent to which some persons pursue the use of soda water. The mere aqueous solution of carbonic acid, which is made by forcing the gas into water by a condensing pump, and under a pre ure of six or eight atmospheres, is an agreeable and generally speaking harmle diluent. [s. 1141]