Vinegar of Squills.
Take of dried squills, two ounces; distilled vinegar, two pints. Infuse for ten days or a fortnight in a gentle degree of heat, afterwards strain off the liquor, and add to it about a twelfth part its quantity of proof spirits.
This medicine has good effects in disorders of the breast, occasioned by a load of viscid phlegm. It is also of use in hydropic cases for promoting a discharge of urine.
The dose is from two drachms to two ounces, according to the intention for which it is given. When intended to act as a vomit, the dose ought to be large. In other cases, it must not only be exhibited in small doses, but also mixed with cinnamon-water, or some other agreeable aromatic liquor, to prevent the nausea it might otherwise occasion.
William Buchan
Domestic Medicine 2nd edition 1785