Definition

A type of chemical compound that comes from the Calabar bean and is used in medicine to help with certain conditions by affecting nerve signals.

Example

Physostigmine is often used to treat glaucoma and to reverse the effects of certain types of anesthesia.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of physostigmine?

No, I haven't. What is it used for?

It's actually a medicine derived from the Calabar bean that helps with certain conditions.

That sounds interesting! I love learning about new medicines.

Root Explanation

Physostigmine is formed from "physo-" (from Greek "phusis", meaning nature) and "stigmine" (from Greek "stigma", meaning mark or puncture). The word refers to a substance derived from nature that has a specific effect, particularly in the context of its use in medicine to affect the nervous system.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nature' ('physo-') and a 'mark' or 'puncture' ('stigmine') to remember that physostigmine is a natural substance that marks or affects the nervous system.

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