Antiarin is spelled with six letters, but it's pronunciation may seem tricky. The phonetic transcription of the word is /ænˈtiːərɪn/. The stressed syllable is "ti", which is pronounced with a long "ee" sound. The "a" at the beginning of the word is pronounced as the "a" in "cat", while the "r" is rolled. The suffix "-arin" is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by a stress on the final syllable. Overall, the spelling of Antiarin may not be intuitive, but understanding the phonetic transcription can help with accurate pronunciation.
Antiarin is a noun that refers to a poisonous compound derived from the seeds and fruits of the Antiaris toxicaria tree. It is commonly found in tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Antiarin is known for its potent toxic properties, making it a dangerous substance.
This compound acts as a cardiac glycoside, affecting the heart by inhibiting the sodium-potassium pump, which leads to an increased concentration of calcium ions within cells. This disrupts the normal electrical impulses and rhythm of the heart, potentially causing cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, and even death.
Due to its toxicity, Antiarin has been traditionally employed in indigenous cultures for various purposes, including as a poison for hunting or self-defense. In some instances, it has also been used for its medicinal properties, such as a herbal remedy for illnesses like hypertension or asthma, albeit with extreme caution.
It is worth noting that Antiarin should be handled with great care, as exposure to this compound can be life-threatening. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution when working with or around Antiarin-containing plants or any substance derived from them. In case of accidental ingestion or contact, immediate medical attention should be sought to minimize the potential severe health consequences.
A glucoside, the active principle of antiaris.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Antiarin" is derived from the scientific name of a plant known as Antiaris toxicaria. This tree is native to Southeast Asia and is a member of the mulberry family, Moraceae. The etymology of the name "Antiaris" can be traced back to the Greek words "anti-" meaning "against" or "opposite", and "aros" meaning "poison". This name reflects the toxic nature of the plant, as it contains various poisonous compounds. Therefore, "Antiarin" is likely a derivative of the plant's scientific name, referring to the specific toxic substances found in the plant.