Uvae. Raisins. The ripe fruit of Vitis vinifera, or the Grape Vine, dried in the sun or with artificial heat; Lin. Syst., Pen-tandria monogynia. [Uva passa. The dried fruit of Vitis vinifera. IT. S.] Probably a native of Persia, cultivated extensively in different parts of Europe. Imported from Spain.

Prop. & Comp. Raisins contain a considerable amount of grape sugar (C12 H14 O14), and bitartrate of potash; it is from the grape that tartaric acid is derived, being obtained from argol, the deposit on the sides of wine-casks.

Off. Prep. Raisins are contained in tinct. cardamomi C, and tinct. sennae.

Therapeutics. Slightly refrigerant, but never used in medicine for any therapeutic property they possess. Used only to sweeten preparations.

Vinum Xericum. Sherry. Sherry is described under the head of Alcoholic preparations.