ALKALOID Meaning and
Definition
-
An alkaloid is a naturally occurring compound that possesses alkaline properties and is usually derived from plants. It is characterized by its complex chemical structure and is known for its numerous physiological effects when consumed or used medicinally. Alkaloids are often found in various parts of plants including leaves, stems, roots, and seeds, and are known for their significant biological activities.
These compounds have diverse structures and can exhibit a wide range of effects on living organisms. Some alkaloids can act as stimulants, such as caffeine and nicotine, which affect the central nervous system and can increase alertness and attention. Others have analgesic properties, such as morphine and codeine, and are commonly used as pain medications.
Alkaloids are generally bitter-tasting and possess varying degrees of toxicity. Many of these compounds have been utilized throughout history for their medicinal properties and have played a significant role in the development of pharmaceutical drugs. They are often extracted from plants using various techniques, and their isolation and purification allow for their utilization in medicine, pharmacology, and other industries.
Due to their diverse chemical structures and biological activities, alkaloids have been widely studied, with numerous scientific advancements made in their synthesis and research into their potential applications. They continue to be an important area of study in the fields of chemistry, medicine, and natural product research.
-
A basic substance found in the leaves, bark, seeds, and other parts of plants, usually constituting the active principle of the crude drug. A substance of similar nature formed in animal tissues. Alkaloids are usually bitter in taste and alkaline in reaction and unite with acids to form salts. According to the usage of the U.S. and Br. Pharmacopeias, the name of an alkaloid terminates in -ina or -ine, thereby distinguishing it from a glucoside, the termination of which is-inum or -in.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
A substance having alkaline properties in a slight degree; the alkaline principle of a vegetable.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ALKALOID
Etymology of ALKALOID
The word "alkaloid" derives from the combination of two Greek words: "alkali" (ἁλκαλί) and "eidos" (εἶδος).
"Alkali" originally referred to the ashes of halophytic plants, which were alkaline in nature and often used in traditional glass-making processes. Later, the term came to encompass substances with similar properties, such as the soluble hydroxides of certain metals and ammonia.
"Eidos" translates to "form", "shape", or "appearance" in Greek. When combined with "alkali", it forms "alkaloid", which suggests something that is chemically similar to an alkaline substance.
The word "alkaloid" was first coined by the German chemist Carl Friedrich Wilhelm Meißner in 1819.
Similar spelling words for ALKALOID
- alkaline,
- alkalinize,
- algal,
- alkalify,
- alkalinity,
- alkalinise,
- alkalotic,
- alkalize,
- alkalosis,
- alkalemia,
- alkaloidal,
- alkaluria,
- alkalic,
- alkali,
- alkalise.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
