The American Journal of Pharmacy, Volume 61, published in 1889 under the editorship of John M. Maisch, serves as a comprehensive repository of pharmaceutical knowledge from the late 19th century. Spanning 682 pages, this volume offers a detailed exploration of various medicinal plants, their properties, and applications, reflecting the era’s scientific understanding and practices in pharmacy.

Throughout its twelve monthly issues, the journal delves into a diverse array of topics. For instance, the January issue discusses the Hungarian daisy as an adulterant in insect powder and examines the leaves of Magnolia glauca. The February issue focuses on the anatomical structure of Grindelia robusta and the arrow-poison of the Somalis. Subsequent issues cover subjects such as the oleoresin of male fern, the resin from flower buds of Populus tremuloides, and the composition of the resin from Pinus silvestris. These articles not only provide insights into the botanical sources of medicinal compounds but also reflect the analytical methodologies employed in their study during that period.

The journal also includes abstracts from French and German pharmaceutical journals, offering readers a broader perspective on global developments in the field. Notably, the April issue features notes on Egyptian opium and other drugs found in the Cairo bazaars, highlighting the international trade and utilization of medicinal substances. Such inclusions underscore the interconnectedness of global pharmaceutical practices and the exchange of knowledge across cultures.

In addition to botanical studies, the journal addresses practical aspects of pharmacy, including the preparation and standardization of tinctures, the analysis of essential oils, and the cultivation of medicinal plants. The October issue discusses the cultivation of medicinal plants in Cambridgeshire, reflecting the growing interest in local sourcing and sustainable practices in the production of medicinal substances. These articles provide valuable historical context for understanding the evolution of pharmaceutical practices and the increasing emphasis on quality control and local sourcing.

Volume 61 of the American Journal of Pharmacy offers a rich tapestry of information that mirrors the scientific curiosity and methodological approaches of its time. It serves as a testament to the enduring quest for knowledge in the field of pharmacy and provides a window into the practices and perspectives that have shaped modern pharmaceutical science.