guaiacum Definition
- 1a small tree or shrub of the Caribbean and the adjacent coasts of Central and South America, the wood of which yields a resin used chiefly in medicine and perfumery
- 2the resin obtained from this tree
Using guaiacum: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "guaiacum" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Guaiacum is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Example
The wood of guaiacum is very hard and durable.
Example
The resin of guaiacum is used in the manufacture of perfumes and varnishes.
guaiacum Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for guaiacum
- lignum-vitae
- tree of life
Phrases with guaiacum
a medical test used to detect the presence of blood in stool or other bodily fluids by using guaiacum resin
Example
The doctor ordered a guaiacum test to check for any signs of internal bleeding.
the hard, heavy, and durable wood of the guaiacum tree, used in making various tools and objects
Example
The sailors used guaiacum wood to make the ship's pulleys and blocks.
a resin obtained from the wood of the guaiacum tree, used in medicine as a purgative and in perfumery as a fixative
Example
The guaiacum resin has a strong and pleasant aroma, making it a popular ingredient in perfumes.
Origins of guaiacum
from Spanish 'guayaco', from Taíno 'guayacán', meaning 'wood that heals'
Summary: guaiacum in Brief
Guaiacum [gwahy-uh-kuhm] is a small tree or shrub native to the Caribbean and Central and South America. Its wood yields a resin used in medicine and perfumery. Guaiacum is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The term extends into phrases like 'guaiacum test,' a medical test used to detect the presence of blood in stool or other bodily fluids.
