elaterin Chem.
(ɪˈlætərɪn)
Also elatine.
[f. elater-ium + -in: cf. F. élatérine.]
The active principle of elaterium (C20H28O5).
| 1830 Lindley Nat. Syst. Bot. 193 An extremely active poisonous principle, called Elatine, has..been found in the placenta of this plant. 1866 Treas. Bot. I. 437/2 The active principle of elaterium is a crystalline substance called elaterin. 1887 Brunton Pharmacol. 929 Elaterin is the most powerful hydragogue we possess. |