colocynths
/ˈkɑləsɪnθs/
noun
- The dried fruit pulp of a plant (Citrullus colocynthis) used as a strong laxative.
- The bitter taste of colocynths made them difficult to take, even when mixed with honey.
- In ancient medicine, colocynths were prescribed to treat severe constipation.
- The herbalist warned that colocynths should only be used under medical supervision.