will communicate a deep yellow or orange colour to rectified spirit of wine.
Lastly, if there remain any matter, after these various operations have been performed, it is generally denominated an earth, which, by repeated ablutions in pure distilled water, may be divided into various kinds of species, such as calcareous, siliceous, bolar, or ochreous, &c. These may be still farther examined by the test of fire; and, according to the appearances they assume, on being exposed to that element, it may be easily discovered whether they are vitrescible, or capable of being converted into glass; whether they will calcine, or become a species of lime; or, whether they will yield any metallic substance.—Such is the method by which the analysis of mineral waters ought to be conducted; and it is only by a strict observance of the rules above stated, that chemists have been enabled to enrich the world with numerous discoveries in the mineral kingdom.
Acton-water, is a mineral spring of that place, in the county of Middlesex. It is of a whitish colour and sweetish taste, accompanied with a mixture of the bitter found in the Epsom water. Its salt is not so soft as that obtained from the latter, though it is more pungent and nitrous, and strikes a deep red or purple, with the tincture of logwood in brandy. It is chiefly used on account of its purgative properties, being little inferior to the Epsom water, of which we have already given an account, vol. ii. p. 232.
Aix-la-Chapelle, or Aken water, takes its rise from several springs in the city of that name. It is remarkable for its sulphureous taste and smell, both which are, by drinking it, communicated to the body. This mineral spring is chiefly employed as a hot-bath; and, from its sulphureous properties, is particularly useful in all cutaneous affections; though, when taken internally, it is likewise of extensive utility, and possesses considerable medicinal powers. Its sensible effects, indeed, are not very remarkable. In general, it produces a slight degree of gaiety and cheerfulness; but, if drank in too large doses, is apt to produce nausea, vertigo, and sleepiness: if taken in moderation, it proves mildly laxative.
The waters of Aix-la-Chapelle are chiefly resorted to by those who complain of indigestion, and other affections of the stomach, arising from too luxurious living. They are, besides, very efficacious in rheumatism; in hysteric, nervous, and hypochondriacal cases; in melancholy; the stone and gravel; in paralysis; and a variety of other disorders.
The proper seasons for drinking these waters are, from the middle of May to the beginning of June; and from the middle of August to the latter end of September. In taking them internally, the patient should commence with half a pint for a dose, which ought to be increased and repeated more or less frequently, according to the effects it produces, and the intention with which it is used.
As mineral waters frequently contribute to the recovery of health; and as many persons are prevented from resorting to the place, whence such fluids are obtained, various experiments have been made, with the view of procuring them by art,
