Definition

1. Noun:
   • A medicinal powder: Goa powder is a bitter-tasting, yellow-colored powder derived from the wood of the Andira araroba tree (also known as Vataireopsis araroba). It is used primarily as a topical agent for treating certain skin conditions.

Usage

• Goa powder is applied externally to the skin.
• It is known for its intensely bitter taste and yellow color.
• Its use is primarily historical or in specific traditional contexts for skin diseases.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor prescribed a paste made from Goa powder for the persistent rash.
  • Historically, Goa powder was a common treatment for psoriasis and eczema.

Advanced Usage

• "Araroba powder": This is a synonym for Goa powder, referring to the same substance.
  • The old pharmacopeia listed araroba powder as a key ingredient in the ointment.

Variants and Related Words

• Araroba (n): Another name for the tree () or the crude drug from which Goa powder is obtained.
• Chrysarobin (n): A purified chemical constituent (a mixture of compounds) obtained from Goa powder, used similarly in dermatology.

Synonyms

• Araroba powder: A direct synonym.
• Crude chrysarobin: Refers to the less purified form of the medicinal substance.

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically denotes the powdered form of the araroba tree product. It is not a general term for any yellow powder or skin treatment.
• Its use has declined with the advent of modern pharmaceuticals but remains a part of medical history and some alternative practices.

Noun

1. a bitter yellow powder used to treat skin diseases