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scammony

1. (Science: botany) A species of bindweed or Convolvulus (C. Scammonia).

2. An inspissated sap obtained from the rot of the Convolvulus Scammonia, of a blackish gray colour, a nauseous smell like that of old cheese, and a somewhat acrid taste. It is used in medicine as a cathartic.

Origin: F. Scammonee, L. Scammonia, scammonea, Gr.