Ammoniacum

/ˌæməˈnaɪəkəm/ noun

Definition

The Latin and scientific name for the resinous gum ammoniac, used especially in older scientific and medical texts.

Etymology

Latin form of the Greek 'ammoniakon,' preserving the classical name in formal scientific nomenclature.

Kelly Says

Old medical textbooks prescribe 'gummi ammoniacum' for ailments—reading Renaissance physician handbooks reveals that ammoniacum was considered almost a miracle cure for coughs and fevers.

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