ANTIMONII TARTRAS Meaning and
Definition
-
Antimonii tartras, also known as tartar emetic, is an inorganic compound commonly used in medicine. It is a white, crystalline powder that consists of antimony, oxygen, and tartaric acid. The chemical formula for antimonii tartras is C8H12O8Sb2.
Antimonii tartras has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its therapeutic properties. It is primarily utilized as an expectorant to relieve respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma. It works by stimulating the expulsion of mucus and enhancing lung function.
In addition to its expectorant effects, antimonii tartras also exhibits emetic properties, which induce vomiting. This characteristic makes it useful in the treatment of poisoning cases, where the elimination of toxic substances from the body is crucial for recovery. It is important to note, however, that the use of antimonii tartras as an emetic has decreased significantly in modern medicine due to the availability of safer alternatives.
Despite its medicinal benefits, antimonii tartras can be toxic if used in excessive amounts or for a prolonged period. Overdosing can lead to severe side effects such as gastrointestinal irritation, abdominal pain, and cardiovascular problems.
In summary, antimonii tartras is an inorganic compound that has been used historically as an expectorant and emetic in the field of medicine. While it possesses therapeutic properties, caution must be exercised when using this compound to avoid potential toxicity.
Etymology of ANTIMONII TARTRAS
The word "Antimonii tartras" is a Latin medical term that translates to "antimony tartrate" in English.
To break it down:
1. Antimonii: It derives from the Latin word "antimonium", which comes from the Greek word "antimonos". "Antimonium" refers to the chemical element antimony, symbol Sb, having atomic number 51 on the periodic table.
2. Tartras: This term comes from the Latin "tartrum", which originates from the Greek word "tartron". It refers to tartaric acid or its salts, which are used in medicine as chemical compounds.
The combination "Antimonii tartras" essentially describes the compound formed by the chemical element antimony with tartaric acid or a salt of tartaric acid.
