James Thacher’s “The American New Dispensatory,” published in 1810, stands as a significant work in the history of American pharmacy. Drawing from established European and American sources, Thacher aimed to create a comprehensive guide that would serve as a practical reference for medical practitioners and apothecaries in the United States. The book provides detailed information on pharmaceutical chemistry, materia medica, and the preparation of medicinal substances, reflecting the medical knowledge and practices of the early 19th century.

The first section delves into the general principles of pharmaceutic chemistry and operations, offering insights into the chemical analysis of medicinal substances. Thacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the chemical properties of drugs to ensure their effective and safe use. The materia medica section introduces several new and valuable articles, many of which are native to the United States, highlighting the growing interest in indigenous plants and their medicinal potential. This inclusion not only expanded the scope of available treatments but also underscored the importance of local resources in medical practice.

In the preparations and compositions segment, Thacher outlines various methods for preparing medicinal substances, providing practical guidance for their use in clinical settings. The appendix further enriches the work by including medical prescriptions, discussions on the nature and medical uses of gases, and insights into medical electricity and galvanism. These additions reflect the era’s exploration of emerging medical technologies and their potential applications in treatment.

Thacher’s work also addresses the cultivation of the poppy plant and the method of preparing opium, offering a glimpse into the practices surrounding controlled substances during that period. The inclusion of several useful tables adds to the book’s utility as a reference, providing quick access to essential information. Overall, “The American New Dispensatory” serves as a testament to the evolving field of American medicine, blending traditional knowledge with new discoveries to meet the healthcare needs of its time.