Colytic

/kɒˈlɪt.ɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to the breaking down or dissolution of colon contents, or having a laxative effect on the colon.

Etymology

From Greek 'kolon' (colon) and 'lysis' (loosening or dissolution) with the suffix '-ic'. The term reflects medical understanding of how substances affect the digestive system.

Kelly Says

The '-lytic' ending appears in many medical terms like 'catalytic' and 'hemolytic'—it's from Greek 'lysis' meaning 'to break apart,' which is exactly what colytic substances do to waste in your intestines!

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