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484 DENTAL MEDICINE.

According to the preparation of oleates as recommended by
Dr. Shoemaker —
Oleate of Mercury is prepared by precipitating a solution of
sodium oleate with mercuric chloride, and is the best local stimulant
and alterative application of all the mercurials. It may be diluted
with either the paraffinates, or, better still, with lard or lard oils.
When applied to the unbroken skin it causes marked stimulation,
bordering on congestion. It has great penetrating power, is
readily absorbed by the skin, and does not become rancid nor
stain the linen. It is a valuable remedy in syphilis, the treatment
of indurations after abscesses, skin diseases of a scaly nature,
obstinate ulcers, parasitic affections, etc., and may be employed
advantageously with other oleates. As it is capable of producing
the constitutional effects, it must be employed carefully.
A mixture of oleate of mercury gr. x to xx, with the oint-
ment of oleate of zinc 3j? is very effective in chronic acne and
eczema, especially in the fissured variety of the latter common
to the palmar and plantar surfaces. For syphilitic skin eruptions
and in superficial ulcers, oleate of mercury 3j? vvith oleate of
bismuth Siiji or the same quantity of the ointment of the oleatte
of lead, acts promptly and efficiently. For one of the best and
most efficacious oily applications for loss of hair, especially when
the scalp is harsh and dry, and the hairs dull and without lustre,
a preparation composed of oleate of mercury 5j to ij, with oil of
ergot Sj, is highly recommended.
Oleate of Zinc is prepared by decomposing a sodium oleate
with a saturated solution of zinc sulphate, boiling out and drying
the precipitate and then reducing it to an impalpable powder.
One part of oleate of zinc melted with three parts of lard or
oil gives a most useful ointment, but the best results are obtained
from the oleate of zinc alone. It is in the form of a fine, pearl-
colored powder, having a soft, soapy feel, much like powdered
French chalk. It is valuable in all forms of sweating.
Oleate of Lead is prepared by precipitating a sodium oleate with
a solution of lead subacetate. To form the ointment of lead
oleate, the washed and dried precipitate is melted with equal parts
of lard. Oleate of lead exerts a combined sedative and astringent