Such are the Testaceous Pouders, Hartshorn, Coral, Crabs Eyes and Claws, calcin'd Bones, burnt Ivory, &c.
Absorbents are the same with what we otherwise call Driers and Sweetners.
The Term Absorbent is frequently confounded with Alcaly ; Alcalies having, really, the Effect of Absorbents with respect to Acids. See ACID, and ALCALY.