ALKERMES, in Medicine, &c., a Term borrowed from the Arabs.—The Confection of Alkermes, is a celebrated Remedy, of the Form and Consistence of a Confection - whereof the Kermes Berries are the Basis. See CONFECTION and KERMES.The other Ingredients, as prescribed by the College, are Pippin-Cyder, Rose-Water, Sugar, Ambergrease, Musk, Cinnamon, Aloes Wood, Pearls, and Leaf Gold.—But the Sweets are usually omitted. It is much used as a Cordial; especially, says Dr. Quincy, among Female Prescribers, and in compliance to them: But that Author decries its Value in that Intention, and thinks it ought only to be regarded as a Sweetener.
