SCIENTIFIC DISCOVERY.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 8377, 25 July 1905, Page 2

SCIENTIFIC DISCOVERY.

SUBSTANCE VITAL TO HEALTH MADE FROM COAL TAR.

An important advance in medical science has just been made in the preparation of adrenalin — the natural "tonic" of the body— frcßn coal-tar products. The credit for this interesting discovery is due to Mr H. D. Dakin, of the Lister Institute, who records the results of his researches in synthetic chemistry in the current issue of the " Journal of Physiology." Adrenalin is the active principle of the suprarenal capsules of the body. These little organs, like cocked hats in shape, are situated one just above each kidney. Twelve years ago their purpose was a mystery, though Dr AddiKon, of Guy's Hospital, had shown in 1549 that they were essential to life, for if they became diseased great muscular prostration would follow, and death would not be long delayed.

In 1593 Professor Schafer and Dr Oliver obtained from these _ glands a very active juics, which from its powerful effect upon all the muscles may be regarded as the natural " tonic " of the body. This tonic is more evident in the heart and blood vessels, which it braces up in an extraordinary way. The next step of obtaining the active principle of this juice in a pure,, crystalline state was accomplished in 1901 by Dr Takamine, a Japanese scientist. Under the name of adrenalin, this preparation has been widely used. From its astringent power it is most valuable in the arrest of bleeding.

But it must not be imagined that it is a suitable remedy for the general public to handle. Like all powerful drugs, it is a tworedged weapon, and its injection by unskilled hands may causs congestion of the lungs and diabetes.