common scurvy grass

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Common Scurvy Grass

Definition:
Common scurvy grass is a type of plant, specifically an arctic cress, that is found in many places. It is known for its high vitamin C content, which is important for preventing or treating scurvy, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C.

Explanation:

1. What is it?

   • Common scurvy grass is a plant that grows in cold, northern areas. It is often found in places like Arctic regions.

2. Why is it important?

   • This plant is valuable because it contains a lot of vitamin C, which helps keep our bodies healthy. Vitamin C is essential for the immune system and helps prevent scurvy.

3. Usage:

   • You might refer to it when talking about plants that are good for health, especially in discussions about nutrition or traditional medicine.

Example Sentence:

• "The sailors ate common scurvy grass during their long voyages to avoid getting scurvy."

Advanced Usage:

• In scientific or botanical discussions, you might say, "Research indicates that common scurvy grass (Cochlearia officinalis) has medicinal properties due to its high ascorbic acid content."

Word Variants:

• Common scurvy grass is sometimes simply referred to as scurvy grass.
• The scientific name for it is Cochlearia officinalis.

Different Meanings:

• While "common scurvy grass" refers specifically to this plant, the term "scurvy" itself can also refer to the illness caused by a vitamin C deficiency.

Synonyms:

• Scurvy grass (without the "common")
• Arctic cress

Related Terms:

• Vitamin C: A nutrient that is crucial for health, found in many fruits and vegetables.
• Scurvy: A disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, leading to symptoms like fatigue, gum disease, and skin issues.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "common scurvy grass," but you might hear references to "getting your vitamins" when discussing health.

Summary:

Common scurvy grass is an important plant known for its health benefits, particularly in providing vitamin C to prevent scurvy.

Academic

Noun

1. a widely distributed Arctic cress reputed to have value in treatment or prevention of scurvy; a concentrated source of vitamin C

Synonyms

• scurvy grass
• Cochlearia officinalis