Important: Safety Warning
This page describes trade processes that use dangerously toxic materials such as cyanide solutions, mercury amalgams, or strong acids. These processes require training, equipment, and precautions far beyond what the text describes.
In addition, this page presents medical treatment from an era before modern medicine. The remedies described are ineffective against the conditions named, and some of the ingredients or doses are harmful. Do not use them to treat any illness; consult a qualified medical professional.
This information has been left in for historical purposes but should not be acted upon.
Home › Elixirs › Elixir of Vitriol
Elixir of Vitriol
Called also aromatic sulphuric acid. In order that elixir of vitriol may be miscible with water without precipitation, aromatics of an oleo-resinous nature cannot be used. Add gradually 3 and pour 1 fluid ounce boiling water on 2 drachms red rose leaves; when both liquids have become cool, add 1 fluid ounce fluid extract of orange-peel, and add alcohol enough made as follows: Take of crystallized protosul- to make the whole up to 18 fluid ounces. phate of iron, 8 ounces; sulphuric acid, 7 fluid Mix and filter. Elixir of vitriol thus prepared drachms; nitric acid, 1½ fluid ounces; sulphate has a pleasant aromatic odor and flavor, and of ammonia, 18 drachms. Boil the sulphate the beautiful red color of the rose leaves, of iron in 2 pints water and add to it the sul- heightened by the presence of the acid. It is miscible with water without turbidity, and a specimen, after long keeping, has deposited but a trace of sediment. phuric acid; when dissolved, add the nitric acid gradually, boiling for a minute or two after each addition, until the nitric acid ceases to produce a black color; boil violently, to