The British Pharmacopoeia 1867, published under the direction of the General Council of Medical Education and Registration of the United Kingdom, stands as a pivotal document in the history of pharmaceutical standards. This edition, printed in London by Spottiswoode & Co., comprises 434 pages and was issued pursuant to the Medical Act of 1858. It serves as a comprehensive guide for the preparation, quality control, and standardization of medicinal substances and preparations in the United Kingdom.

The 1867 pharmacopoeia is a continuation of the first edition published in 1864, which aimed to unify various regional pharmacopoeias into a single national standard. This edition reflects the evolving medical practices and the increasing need for standardized medicinal formulations. It includes detailed monographs on a wide range of substances, outlining their preparation methods, properties, and quality criteria. These monographs were instrumental in ensuring the consistency and safety of medicines dispensed across the country.

One notable aspect of the 1867 edition is its inclusion of the apothecaries’ system of measurements, which was the standard for weighing and measuring medicinal substances at the time. This system, based on the troy weight system, was integral to pharmaceutical practice and is detailed within the pharmacopoeia. Additionally, the work provides a table of chemical elements mentioned in the British Pharmacopoeia, offering insights into the scientific understanding and nomenclature of the period.

The British Pharmacopoeia 1867 not only served as a critical reference for pharmacists and medical practitioners of its time but also laid the groundwork for future editions that would continue to evolve in response to advancements in medical science and technology. Its legacy endures, influencing pharmaceutical standards and practices to this day.