Seidlitz powders

[ sed-lits ]

noun

, (used with a plural verb)

1. a mild laxative consisting of tartaric acid, sodium bicarbonate, and Rochelle salt, which are dissolved separately, mixed, and drunk after effervescence.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Seidlitz powders¹

First recorded in 1805–15; arbitrarily named after a Bohemian village

Example Sentences

Bitartrate of potassium, Seidlitz powders, or solutions of citrate of magnesia may be also administered if indicated.

From Project Gutenberg

Gout-stool and Seidlitz powders all the winter for you, if you don't go easy!'

From Project Gutenberg

Another kind of beer, called white-beer, contains more sugar and oxygen; it may, for this reason, supply the place of sugar, and Seltzer-water, and is recommended to all those who need Seidlitz powders.

From Project Gutenberg

But to return to that dreadful morning when Patty wanted me to take one of her Seidlitz powders.

From Project Gutenberg

At last accounts, he apprenticed himself to a druggist, but was told to vamos soon after making up a lot of Seidlitz powders with oxalic instead of tartaric acid.

From Project Gutenberg