Observations on the Oleum Jecoris Aselli

Or Cod-liver OilIts nature, properties, mode of preparation, etc.

John Savory

Observations on the Oleum Jecoris Aselli or Cod-liver Oil: Its Nature, Properties, Mode of Preparation, etc. is a comprehensive 19th-century treatise that delves into the medicinal virtues and scientific understanding of cod-liver oil, a remedy that gained significant prominence in the treatment of various chronic ailments, particularly those affecting the bones and respiratory system. Drawing upon clinical observations, chemical analyses, and the prevailing medical literature of the time, the author meticulously examines the origins of cod-liver oil, detailing the anatomical source—namely, the liver of the Gadus morrhua or common codfish—and the traditional and improved methods of extraction and purification. The book explores the physical and chemical properties of cod-liver oil, including its color, taste, odor, and composition, and discusses the factors influencing its quality and efficacy. It provides an in-depth account of the oil's therapeutic applications, with particular emphasis on its use in the management of rickets, scrofula, tuberculosis, rheumatism, and other chronic conditions. The author presents case studies and testimonials from physicians and patients, highlighting both the successes and limitations of the treatment. In addition to its medical content, the work addresses the commercial aspects of cod-liver oil production, including the regions most renowned for its manufacture, the processes employed to ensure purity, and the challenges of adulteration and quality control. The book also considers the physiological mechanisms by which cod-liver oil exerts its effects, referencing contemporary theories on nutrition, metabolism, and the role of animal oils in human health. Rich in historical context and scientific detail, Observations on the Oleum Jecoris Aselli serves as both a practical guide for medical practitioners and a valuable historical document, capturing the evolving landscape of 19th-century therapeutics and the enduring quest to harness natural substances for the betterment of human health.

Table of contents

• OBSERVATIONS ON THE OLEUM JECORIS ASELLI, OR COD-LIVER OIL;
• ON COD-LIVER OIL.