The Druggist’s General Receipt Book by Henry Beasley, first published in 1886, is a comprehensive guide that serves as a valuable resource for pharmacists, veterinarians, and herbalists. This 9th edition, comprising over 500 pages, offers a vast array of formulations and recipes pertinent to the preparation of medicines and remedies. The book is organized into sections that detail the preparation of various medicines, including powders, pills, tinctures, and ointments, along with their specific uses and dosages. It also encompasses a veterinary formulary, providing treatments for animals, which reflects the holistic approach to health care prevalent during that era.​

Beasley’s work is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail and its reflection of the medical practices and pharmaceutical knowledge of the late 19th century. The inclusion of a veterinary formulary indicates the interconnectedness of human and animal health practices at the time. Moreover, the book’s emphasis on proprietary medicines and nostrums highlights the burgeoning pharmaceutical industry and the growing interest in standardized remedies. This compilation not only serves as a practical manual for the preparation of medicines but also offers insights into the historical context of medical and pharmaceutical practices.​

The Druggist’s General Receipt Book stands as a testament to the evolution of pharmaceutical knowledge and practices. Its detailed formulations and remedies provide a glimpse into the medical landscape of the 19th century, illustrating the blend of traditional remedies with emerging pharmaceutical techniques. For those interested in the history of medicine and pharmacy, Beasley’s work remains an invaluable resource, offering a window into the practices that have shaped modern medical and pharmaceutical fields.