Research Procedure

Spirits
They are alcoholic or hydroalcoholic solutions of
volatile substances.
Alcoholic content is high (usually over 60%)
When mixed with an aqueous preparation, the
volatile substances present in spirits generally separate
from solution and form a milky preparation.
 Methods of Preparation
1.Simple solution – Aromatic Ammonia Spirit, USP
2.Solution with Maceration- Peppermint Spirit, USP
3.Solution by Chemical Reaction- Ethyl Nitrite Spirit
(NaNo3 + ROH + H2SO4)
4.Distillation-
- Spiritus vini vitis (fermented juice of grapes/wine)
- Spiritus frumenti (fermented malt grains)
Official Title : Aromatic Ammonia Spirit, USP

Official Definition: In each 100mL, not less than 1.7 g

and not more than 2.1 g of total NH3, and ammonium
carbonate corresponding to not less than 3.5g and not
more than 4.5 g of (NH4)2CO3.
Synonyms: Aromatic Spirit of Ammonia
Smelling Salt
Uses: Respiratory Stimulant
 Ingredients Formulation (g or mL)
Ammonium Carbonate 2.04 g
Strong Ammonia 0.36 mL
Solution
Lavender oil 0.06 mL
Lemon oil 0.6 mL
Nutmeg oil 0.06 mL
Alcohol 42 mL
Distilled water 14.88 mL
 Compounding Procedures
 Prepare all the ingredients by weighing and measuring all the ingredients accurately.
 Combine ammonium carbonate and strong ammonia solution in 11.7 mL distilled water.
 Allow the solution to stand for 12 hours with gentle agitation.
 Combine all the oils in 42 mL alcohol.
 Gradually add the ammonium carbonate solution to the oil mixture.
 Add enough distilled water to make the product measure 60 mL.
 Place the mixture in a cool place for 24 hours with occasional agitation.
 Filter, if necessary using a covered funnel to prevent evaporation of volatile oils.
 Place in an appropriate container and label properly.
when mixed with water or with an aqueous
preparation, the volatile substances present in the
spirit generally separate from solution and form a
milky preparation.

Salts may be precipitated from their aqueous

solutions by the addition of spirits due to their lesser
solubility in alcoholic liquids.
QUESTIONS AND
ANSWERS
Example of Elixirs from the British
Pharmacopoeia.
Pediatric Paracetamol Elixir BP
Ephedrine Elixir
Chlorpromazine Elixir
The Spirits still listed in the USP/NF are
 Aromatic Ammonia Spirits
Camphor Spirit
Compound Orange Spirit
Peppermint Spirit
 Uses of Spirits
Carminative – Aromatic spirit of ammonia
Antacid - Aromatic acid of ammonia
Mild reflex circulation stimulant- Camphor spirit
Flavoring agent – Cinnamon spirit
Proper Method of Administering Spirit

For medicinal purposes, spirits may be taken:

orally
applied externally
used by inhalation