bitter principle

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. any of several hundred natural compounds, usually of vegetable origin, having a bitter taste, and not admitting of any chemical classification.

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bitter principle British  

noun

1. any of various bitter-tasting substances, such as aloin, usually extracted from plants

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Etymology

Origin of bitter principle

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

bitter principle

The root-bark of E. atropurpureus is the source of euonymin, a bitter principle with a powerful stimulating effect on the liver.

From The New Gresham Encyclopedia Volume 4, Part 3: Estremoz to Felspar by Various

This contains "oleum calami," and the bitter principle "acorin."

From Herbal Simples Approved for Modern Uses of Cure by Fernie, William Thomas

A weed which has a bitter principle from which a variety of quinine is extracted.

From The Wonder Island Boys: Exploring the Island by Finlay, Roger Thompson

The bitter principle contained in the root, wood and bark was discovered by Blunse who named it samaderin; it is a white, crystalline, foliaceous substance, more soluble in water than in alcohol, fusible.

From The Medicinal Plants of the Philippines by Thomas, Jerome Beers

It contains tannin, and a particular bitter principle.

From Herbal Simples Approved for Modern Uses of Cure by Fernie, William Thomas