According to the U. S. Pharmacopoeia, this is made by mixing solutions, of definite strength, of carbonate of soda and chlorinated lime. An interchange of principles takes place, by which the lime takes the carbonic acid of the carbonate of soda, and is precipitated as carbonate of lime; the soda remaining in solution, combined as the lime had prepiously been, together with a portion of the carbonate of soda undecomposed. The views of the precise chemical nature of the solution differ, as in the case of chlorinated lime; the predominant opinion, though very questionable, being, that it contains hypochlorite of soda, chloride of sodium, and the excess of carbonate of soda just referred to.

This solution, or one of equivalent character, was first prepared by M. Labarraque, by whom its use as a disinfecting agent was strongly urged, and with no little success.

The solution is colourless, with a smell recalling that of chlorine, an acrid astringent taste, and an alkaline reaction.

It has similar properties, and may be employed for the same purposes with chlorinated lime. in addition, it has been used internally in chronic cutaneous eruptions, secondary syphilis, and hepatic disorder; in some of which affections, the advantages obtained from it may have depended on the excess of the carbonated alkali contained in it. For local purposes, and as a disinfecting agent, its uses are so precisely those of chlorinated lime, that it is quite unnecessary to repeat them.

The dose for internal use is from twenty to thirty drops, in a wineglassful of water. The solution is poisonous in over-doses.

For a lotion, a fluidounce may be added to a pint of water; the strength being increased or diminished, according to circumstances. As a gargle, it may be used of half the strength, or somewhat more.

Cataplasms, for application to sloughing ulcers, may be made by mixing equal parts of the solution and of water with flaxseed meal.