Ergot is the carefully dried hyphae of Claviceps purpurea; a fungus growing on the unripe fruit of rye, wheat, and corn, that growing on rye constituting the official ergot. This should be kept in opaque, tightly closed containers.

Incompatibilities: Tannic acid ................................................... Caustic alkali ................................................ Metallic salt...................................................

The principal use of Ergot is to induce contractions of the uterus, thereby tending to prevent post-partum hemorrhage. Dose, 2 Gm., better given however, in the form of the Fluidextract.

The Extract and Fluid extract are official.