Glyceritum Amyli (U. S. P.)—Glycerite of Starch.
Related entry: Amylum (U. S. P.)—Starch
SYNONYMS: Glycerin of starch, Plasma, Glycamyl.
Preparation.—"Starch, ten grammes (10 Gm.) [154 grs.]; water, ten cubic centimeters (10 Cc.) [162♏︎]; glycerin, eighty grammes (80 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 360 grs.]. To the starch, contained in a porcelain capsule, add the water and glycerin, and stir until a homogeneous mixture is produced. Then apply a heat gradually raised to 140° C. (284° F.), and not exceeding 144° C. (291.2° F.), stirring constantly, until a translucent jelly is formed. Transfer the product to suitable vessels, provided with well-fitting covers "—(U. S. P.).
This preparation, if exposed to the atmosphere, readily absorbs moisture, hence it should be kept in closely-stoppered bottles. According to Willmott the substitution of water in place of one-third of the glycerin used will prevent this change.
Action and Medical Uses.—Glycerite of starch forms a bland preparation, very useful in cases in which it is desired to apply mild, non-irritating dressings, as in the burning heat of eczema, in excoriated surfaces, in erythema, and in several other irritated or inflamed conditions of the skin. It likewise forms a vehicle for the application of other agents with which it may be mixed.
