inositol

[ ih-noh-si-tawl, -tohl, ahy-noh- ]

noun

1. Biochemistry. a compound, C 6 H 12 O 6 , derivative of cyclohexane, widely distributed in plants and seeds as phytin, and occurring in animal tissue and in urine: an essential growth factor for animal life, present in the vitamin B complex.
2. Pharmacology. the commercial form of this compound, a white, sweet, crystalline solid, used chiefly to promote epithelialization of the cervix after infection or injury.

inositol

/ ɪˈnəʊsɪˌtɒl /

noun

1. a cyclic alcohol, one isomer of which ( i -inositol) is present in yeast and is a growth factor for some organisms; cyclohexanehexol. Formula: C 6 H 12 O 6

inositol

/ ĭ-nō′sĭ-tôl′,-tōl′,ī-nō′- /

1. Any of nine isomeric alcohols, especially one found in plant and animal tissue and classified as a member of the vitamin B complex. Inositol is necessary for the growth of yeasts and other fungi, and in humans is especially abundant as part of a phospholipid found in the brain. Chemical formula: C 6 H 12 O 6 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of inositol¹

1890–95; inosite (< Greek īn-, stem of ī́s fiber, sinew + -ose ² + -ite ¹ ) + -ol ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of inositol¹

C19: from Greek in-, is sinew + -ose ² + -ite ¹+ -ol ¹

Example Sentences

In this case it was a naturally occurring sugar, inositol.

From Seattle Times

I took inositol, an alternative to synthetic progesterone.

From Scientific American

Among the more than two dozen ingredients in the kangaroo formula: biotin, choline, inositol, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, zinc, iron, manganese, copper, iodine and selenium.

From New York Times

The study speculates that these lowered BAC levels might be attributed to the sugary additives found in energy drinks, such as inositol and taurine.

From Newsweek

He also suggests taking inositol, a natural anti-anxiety supplement that helps regulate serotonin, reduces stress and puts the mind to rest at bedtime.

From New York Times