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physostigmine

(fī′sō stig′mēn′, -min)

noun

a colorless or pinkish crystalline alkaloid, CHNO, extracted from the Calabar bean, used in medicine for stimulating intestinal muscles, contracting the pupils of the eyes, etc.

Origin: < ModL Physostigma, name of the genus including the Calabar bean < Gr physa, a bellows (< IE *phus-, var. of *pu-, *phu-, to blow > L pustula) + stigma, a prick (see stick) + -ine

See physostigmine in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A crystalline alkaloid, C₁₅H₂₁N₃O₂, extracted from the Calabar bean, used in medicine as a miotic and cholinergic agent and to enhance memory in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Also called eserine.

Origin:

Origin: New Latin Phȳsostigma, genus name of the Calabar bean (Greek phūsa, bellows + stigma)

Origin: + -ine²

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