Origin. - An organic acid, C6H.5COOH, obtained from benzoin by sublimation, or prepared artificially.

Description and Properties. - White or yellowish-white, lustrous scales or friable scales, having a slight characteristic odor resembling that of benzoin, and of a warm acid taste; somewhat volatile at a moderately warm temperature, and rendered darker by exposure to light. Soluble, when pure, in about 281 parts of water, in 2 parts of alcohol at about 250 C. (77 F.), in 15 parts of boiling water, and in 1 part of boiling alcohol. It is also soluble in 3 parts of ether, 7 parts of chloroform, and readily soluble in carbon disulphide, in benzol, and in fixed and volatile oils. Sparingly soluble in benzin.

Benzoic acid has an acid reaction and is inflammable. It should be kept in dark amber-colored, well-stoppered bottles, in a cool place.

Dose. - 5-15 grains (0.3-1 Gm.) [7 1/2 grains (0.5 Gm.), U. S. P.].