Definition

A type of chemical compound that comes from some plants and is used in medicine to help treat skin conditions like psoriasis and vitiligo by making the skin sensitive to light.

Example

Doctors sometimes prescribe psoralen to patients with skin disorders to enhance the effects of light therapy.

Conversation

Have you heard about psoralen and how it helps with skin conditions?

Yeah, I think it’s used for treating psoriasis, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how it works with UV light.

I know, it's amazing how nature can provide such solutions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Psoralen is derived from the Greek word "psora" (meaning itch) and the suffix "-len" which is often used in chemical nomenclature to denote a compound. The word "psoralen" refers to a compound that is used in the treatment of skin conditions associated with itching.

Memory Tip

Think of 'psora' which means itch, and remember that 'psoralen' is a compound used to treat itching skin conditions.

Visually Confused Words