aloes
Definition
Noun 1. A purgative medicine: A strong laxative substance or preparation derived from the dried juice or leaves of plants in the Aloe genus, used historically in medicine. 2. (Singular in form, often used with a singular verb): The bitter, resinous substance obtained from aloe plants, used for its cathartic properties.
Usage
- The word "aloes" is typically used as a non-count noun (uncountable noun) in a medical or pharmacological context.
- It often appears with a singular verb (e.g., "Aloes is powerful.") despite the "-s" ending, as it refers to a substance.
- It is used to specify the medicinal product, not the living plant itself.
Examples
- The physician prescribed a dose of aloes for the patient.
- Aloes has been used as a purgative since ancient times.
- The bitter taste of aloes is well-known.
Advanced Usage
- Pharmaceutical context: In formal or historical medical texts, "aloes" specifically denotes the dried latex (juice) from aloe leaves, processed into a drug.
- The formula contained myrrh and aloes.
Variants and Related Words
- Aloe (noun): The plant genus , comprising succulent plants. (Note: This is the singular form for the plant, distinct from the medicinal product "aloes").
- She grows an aloe on her windowsill.
- Aloin (noun): The active crystalline compound found in aloes, responsible for its laxative effect.
Synonyms
- Purgative: A substance that causes evacuation of the bowels.
- Cathartic: A medicine that accelerates defecation.
- Laxative: A substance that promotes bowel movements. (Note: "Aloes" is typically a stronger, more drastic purgative than a mild laxative).
Notes on Meaning
- Historical vs. Modern Use: Historically, "aloes" was a common and important medicinal substance. In modern contexts, its use is less common due to the availability of other treatments, and the term may be encountered primarily in historical or herbal medicine texts.
- Distinction from "Aloe Vera": The common houseplant gel is used topically for burns and skin conditions. "Aloes" (the medicinal purgative) is derived from a different part (the latex) of certain aloe species and is for internal use as a laxative. They are different products from the same plant family.
Noun
-
a purgative made from the leaves of aloe
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