Lime-water and lime carbonates, when taken internally in moderate doses, produce similar local astringent and sedative effects, and act also as absorbents and antacids. The phosphate is a mechanical astringent to some extent. but the sulphate may alternately confine and relax the bowels, according to the irritation produced.

Circulatory System

No effect upon this system is commonly traced to lime compounds, but full doses of the chloride are said to produce sometimes the symptoms of a "muscular poison" like potash, with lowering of temperature, slowing of pulse, and arrest of heart-action (Rabuteau and others: Comptes Rendus, February 10, 1873).