The American Journal of Pharmacy, Volume 57, published in 1885, offers a comprehensive exploration of pharmaceutical practices and botanical studies from the late 19th century. Edited by John M. Maisch and published under the authority of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, this volume comprises twelve monthly issues, each delving into various aspects of pharmacology, medicinal plants, and pharmaceutical preparations. The journal serves as a valuable resource for understanding the scientific approaches and medicinal knowledge prevalent during that era.

Throughout the year, the journal presents detailed chemical analyses of plant species such as Polygonum hydropiper, Fouquieria splendens, and Burdock fruit. These studies reflect the growing interest in identifying active compounds within plants and assessing their potential therapeutic applications. Additionally, the journal discusses the cultivation and harvesting techniques of medicinal plants like Cinchona in Bolivia, highlighting the global exchange of botanical knowledge and practices. The inclusion of practical notes from foreign journals further enriches the content, offering insights into international pharmaceutical developments.

A significant portion of the journal is dedicated to the Materia Medica of the New Mexican Pharmacopoeia, presented in multiple parts throughout the year. This extensive compilation details the properties, uses, and preparations of various indigenous plants and substances, underscoring the importance of regional botanical knowledge in pharmaceutical practices. The journal also examines pharmaceutical preparations from the Mexican Pharmacopoeia, providing a comparative perspective on medicinal formulations across different cultures.

Volume 57 of the American Journal of Pharmacy stands as a testament to the scientific rigor and botanical expertise of the 19th-century pharmaceutical community. Its in-depth analyses, coupled with practical insights into medicinal plant cultivation and preparation, offer a window into the evolving landscape of pharmacology during that period. For those interested in the historical development of pharmacy and herbal medicine, this volume serves as an indispensable reference, reflecting the enduring legacy of traditional practices and their integration into scientific inquiry.