Aloemodin

/ˌæloʊˈmɒdɪn/ noun

Definition

A bitter compound found in aloe that has laxative and anti-inflammatory properties.

Etymology

From aloe + -modin suffix used in chemistry for compounds. The modin element relates to medical efficacy. Aloemodin is the chemical name for the active purgative compound extracted from aloe latex.

Kelly Says

Aloemodin is why aloe used to be a popular—if very dramatic—laxative medicine. Medieval doctors knew aloe worked powerfully but didn't know it was this specific chemical compound doing the work; modern chemistry finally revealed the secret ingredient.

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