Latin, Oleum Theobromatis (Gen., Olei Theobromatis)

Eng., Oil of Theobroma. Synonym, Cacao Butter. A fixed oil obtained from the roasted seeds of Theobroma Cacao.

Form

A yellowish-white solid.

Odor And Taste

A faint, agreeable odor, and a bland, chocolatelike taste.

Solubility

Insoluble in water or alcohol.

Therapeutic Action

Emollient, lubricant.

Uses

Principally employed as a vehicle in the manufacture of suppositories. It is particularly adapted to this purpose, as it is a rather firm solid at ordinary temperatures, but readily melts at the temperature of the body.

Administration

Suppositories with a base of Cacao Butter should be kept in a cool place, and before inserting they may be dipped in olive oil. If they are long held in the fingers they become too soft to insert. The following prescription illustrates the use of the drug:

M. ft. suppos. no. iv. Sig.-Use one twice daily.

Note that the amount of the oil is left to the discretion of the druggist.