Probably the resin of some coniferous tree. Source, Northern Europe, Assam, Japan, China, &c.

Med. Prop. and Action. Stimulant? It yields, on distillation, an acid and an oil (Succinic Acid and Succinic Oil), which, in doses of ev., is regarded as stimulant, anti-spasmodic, and expectorant. It formerly entered into the composition of Eau-de-Luce Externally, the oil is occasionally used as a liniment. It is a remedy of little value.

125. Therapeutic Uses

In Hooping Cough, it was formerly employed. Dr. Alnatt considers that he has seen benefit from the application of a liniment, composed of equal parts of Succinic Oil and Spirits of Hartshorn, well rubbed into the spine, night and morning. The benefit derived was probably due to the friction employed.

126. In Epilepsy, Amber Was, At One Time, Much Esteemed

It is well spoken of by Riverius, Beattie,§ Cullen,|| and others. It has now fallen into disuse.

* Diseases of the Skin, pp. 198-336. Indian Ann. of Med. Sci. v. p. 83. Prax. Med. p. 32.

§ De Cognos. et Cur. Morb. &c. 1780. || Mat. Med. vol. ii. p. 361.

127. In Hysteria, and some nervous and spasmodic affections, it was also employed, but is now rarely prescribed.