veratrine Meaning, Definition & Usage

Ve*ra"trine noun

Etymology

Cf. F. vératrine. See Veratrum.

Definitions

1. (Chem.) A poisonous alkaloid obtained from the root hellebore (Veratrum) and from sabadilla seeds as a white crystalline powder, having an acrid, burning taste. It is sometimes used externally, as in ointments, in the local treatment of neuralgia and rheumatism. Called also veratria, and veratrina.