scammony
n pl , -nies
1 a twining Asian convolvulus plant, Convolvulus scammonia, having arrow-shaped leaves, white or purple flowers, and tuberous roots
2 a resinous juice obtained from the roots of this plant and having purgative properties
3 any of various similar medicinal resins or the plants that yield them
(Old English, via Latin from Greek skammonia, of obscure origin)
♦
scammoniate adj