bitter aloes
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A purgative medicine: A strong laxative substance prepared from the dried juice of the leaves of certain aloe plants, known for its intensely bitter taste.
Usage
"Bitter aloes" is used as a singular noun phrase to refer to the medicinal preparation itself. It is often discussed in historical, herbal, or pharmaceutical contexts. - The old pharmacopeia listed bitter aloes as a common purgative. - The taste of bitter aloes is notoriously unpleasant.
Advanced Usage
- Historical Remedy: The term is frequently used when describing traditional or historical medical practices, as its use has declined in modern medicine.
- In the 18th century, bitter aloes was a standard treatment for constipation.
Variants and Related Words
- Aloe (noun): The plant genus from which this substance is derived. Note: "Aloe" commonly refers to the plant today, which is used topically for burns and is distinct from the species used to produce the purgative "bitter aloes."
- Aloin (noun): The active chemical compound responsible for the purgative effect in bitter aloes.
Synonyms
- Purgative
- Laxative (specifically, a stimulant laxative)
- Cathartic
Notes on Meaning
The term "bitter aloes" specifically denotes the processed medicinal product, not the fresh plant. Its primary defining characteristics are its function (a strong purgative) and its property (extremely bitter taste). It is not typically used in casual, modern contexts.
Noun
- a purgative made from the leaves of aloe