Latin, Diastasum (Gen., Diastasi)

Eng., Diastase. A mixture containing amylolytic enzymes obtained from an infusion of malt. It converts not less than fifty times its weight of potato starch into sugars.

Form

A yellowish-white powder, or translucent scales.

Odor And Taste

Odorless and tasteless.

Solubility

Soluble in water; almost insoluble in alcohol.

Average Dose

8 grains (0.5 Gm.).

Therapeutic Action

Digestant.

Uses

For the digestion of starchy food.

It is seldom prescribed as such, but preparations containing it are sometimes employed.