gelsemium

[ jel-see-mee-uhm ]

noun

, plural gel·se·mi·ums, gel·se·mi·a [jel-, see, -mee-, uh].

1. the dried rhizome and root of yellow jasmine, formerly used as a sedative in the form of a powder, tincture, or fluid extract.

gelsemium

/ dʒɛlˈsiːmɪəm /

noun

1. any climbing shrub of the loganiaceous genus Gelsemium, of SE Asia and North America, esp the yellow jasmine, having fragrant yellow flowers
2. the powdered root of the yellow jasmine, formerly used as a sedative

Word History and Origins

Origin of gelsemium¹

1870–75; < New Latin < Italian gelsom ( ino ) jasmine + Latin -ium -ium

Word History and Origins

Origin of gelsemium¹

C19: New Latin, from Italian gelsomino jasmine

Example Sentences

Gelsemium is a very powerful agent for depressing the pulse and the functional activity of the spinal cord.

From Project Gutenberg

Gelsemium is sometimes a very satisfactory remedy—especially in the febrile attacks to which children are liable.

From Project Gutenberg

Feverish and irritable conditions yield frequently to aperients, or to gelsemium and quinine.

From Project Gutenberg

The British Pharmacopoeia contains a tincture of gelsemium, the dose of which is from five to fifteen minims.

From Project Gutenberg

The important medicinal plant known in America as the “Carolina jasmine” is not a true jasmine (see Gelsemium).

From Project Gutenberg