aloin

[ al-oh-in ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. an intensely bitter, crystalline, water-soluble powder composed of the active principles of and obtained from aloe, used chiefly as a purgative.

aloin

/ ˈæləʊɪn /

noun

1. a bitter crystalline compound derived from various species of aloe: used as a laxative and flavouring agent

Word History and Origins

Origin of aloin¹

First recorded in 1835–45; aloe + -ine ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of aloin¹

C19: from aloe + -in

Example Sentences

Aloin pills empty the bowel without much attendant irritation.

From Project Gutenberg

Doans Dinner Pills contain two drastic purgatives, podophyllin and aloin.

From Project Gutenberg