Anaspalin

/ænəˈspeɪlɪn/ noun

Definition

A rare alkaloid compound found in certain plants of the Anastatica genus, studied for potential medicinal properties.

Etymology

From Anastatica (the plant genus name, from Greek anastasis 'resurrection') + -in (chemical suffix indicating an organic compound). The plant was called 'resurrection plant' because it revives when watered.

Kelly Says

The resurrection plant can lose 95% of its water and appear completely dead, then come back to life—scientists are studying anaspalin compounds to understand how organisms survive extreme desiccation!

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