=Creasote.=—This is an oily substance obtained from the slow burning of beechwood. It is chiefly used internally as an antiseptic in dyspepsia and diarrhea, and as an expectorant in purulent bronchitis and phthisis. Large doses produce the same toxic effects as are observed in carbolic-acid poisoning. The _dose_ is from 2 to 20 minims (0.1-1.2 c.c.) in capsules, in milk, or in some bitter tincture, like that of gentian. The _dose_ of _creasote carbonate_ (creosotal), which is free from the unpleasant odor and taste of pure creasote, is from 5 to 20 minims (0.3-1.2 c.c.). =Croton Oil (Oleum Tiglii).=—This is an oil expressed from the seed of a small tree growing in Asia. Locally it is an active vesicant; internally it is a powerful purgative. Large doses cause severe inflammation of the stomach and bowels. The _dose_ is from 1 to 2 drops (0.06-0.12 c.c.) in glycerin, olive oil, or bread-crumbs. A bland vehicle is necessary to prevent the vesicating effect of the drug on the throat. Diluted with from 2 to 4 parts of olive oil, and applied with friction, it is sometimes used as a counterirritant in inflammatory diseases of the chest. =Digitalis.=—This is a powerful circulatory stimulant, strengthening the contractions of the heart, constricting the peripheral blood-vessels, and slowing the pulse. By increasing the blood-pressure in the kidneys it also increases the flow of urine. It is chiefly used as a stimulant in heart disease when there is failure of circulation, and as a diuretic in various forms of dropsy. The effects of the drug should be carefully watched; too large doses cause marked slowing and irregularity of the pulse, and a decrease rather than an increase in the urine. The _dose_ of _powdered digitalis leaves_ is from ½ to 2 grains (0.03-0.13 gm.); of the _Tincture_ (Tinctura Digitalis), 5 to 20 minims (0.3-1.2 c.c.); of the _infusion_ (infusum digitalis), 1 to 4 drams (4-15 c.c.); of _digitalin_, an important principle of the leaves, ¹/₁₀₀ to ¹/₆₀ grain (0.00065-0.001 gm.). =Ergot.=—This is a fungus growing on rye. It is employed to contract the blood-vessels in internal hemorrhage and to stimulate the uterine contractions in the second stage of labor when post-partum hemorrhage is feared. Its use in the early stage of labor to hasten delivery is dangerous, since it may cause tetanic spasm of the uterus and asphyxiation of the child or even rupture of the uterus.