“Pharmaceutical Formulas: A Book of Useful Recipes for the Drug Trade” by Peter MacEwan is a comprehensive reference work first published in 1898. This volume serves as a practical guide for pharmacists, chemists, and manufacturers, compiling a wide array of formulas for various preparations commonly used in the drug trade during the late 19th century. The book is organized into sections covering medicinal compounds, toilet preparations, hair care products, dentifrices, perfumes, household and culinary requisites, beverages, antiseptics, disinfectants, inks, varnishes, confectionery, and more. The formulas are primarily sourced from “The Chemist and Druggist” and “The Chemists’ and Druggists’ Diaries,” reflecting the everyday needs and practices of the trade at the time.

MacEwan’s annotations throughout the book provide valuable insights and practical advice for compounding these preparations. He emphasizes the importance of accuracy and standardization in pharmaceutical practices, offering guidance on measurements, labeling, and packaging. The book also addresses the need for innovation in response to the evolving demands of the drug trade, encouraging pharmacists to develop new formulas to meet emerging needs. While not a treatise on the theory of pharmacy, “Pharmaceutical Formulas” assumes that its readers possess a foundational understanding of pharmaceutical practices and terminology.

The significance of this work lies in its role as a practical manual that bridges the gap between traditional pharmaceutical knowledge and the evolving practices of the late 19th century. By compiling a diverse range of formulas and providing detailed annotations, MacEwan contributed to the standardization and professionalization of the pharmaceutical industry. The book reflects the growing complexity of the drug trade during this period and serves as a testament to the craftsmanship and expertise of pharmacists in an era before the advent of modern pharmaceutical technology.

“Pharmaceutical Formulas” is more than just a collection of recipes; it is a historical document that offers a glimpse into the practices, challenges, and innovations of the pharmaceutical industry at the turn of the 20th century. Its enduring value lies in its detailed compilation of formulas and the practical wisdom imparted through MacEwan’s annotations, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the evolution of pharmaceutical practices.