Origin. - Lithium is found in many mineral waters, the carbonate being prepared from lepidolite.

Description and Properties. - A light, white powder, odorless, and having an alkaline taste; permanent in the air. Soluble in 75 parts of water and 140 parts of boiling water; much more soluble in water saturated with carbon dioxide; insoluble in alcohol, but soluble in diluted acids, with active effervescence.

Dose. - 2-10 grains (0.12-0.6 Gm.) [7 1/2 grains (0.5 Gm.), U. S. P.].