Medicinally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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medicinally

[mɛdɪˈsɪnəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

related to medicine

Medicinally refers to the use of a substance for the treatment or prevention of disease or illness. It often describes how a particular plant, compound, or practice can have health benefits. This term is commonly used in discussions about herbal remedies, pharmaceuticals, and alternative medicine. The medicinal properties of a substance are often studied in the fields of pharmacology and toxicology.

Synonyms

curatively, pharmaceutically, therapeutically.

Examples of usage

  • The herb is used medicinally to treat digestive issues.
  • Many plants are known for their medicinally significant compounds.
  • The ointment can be applied medicinally to promote healing.
  • This oil is medicinally beneficial for skin conditions.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • Many indigenous cultures use plants and herbs medicinally, drawing on long traditions of herbal medicine passed down through generations.
  • In some cultures, traditional practices involve rituals that use medicinal plants, blending healing with spiritual aspects.
  • The idea of using food medicinally has gained traction, with many believing in 'food as medicine' for health improvement.

Modern Medicine

  • Pharmaceutical research often focuses on discovering new medicinal compounds from natural sources, including plants and minerals.
  • The field of pharmacology studies how substances work medicinally, ensuring safety and effectiveness in treating illnesses.
  • Advancements in technology have led to the creation of synthetic medicines that mimic natural compounds found in traditional medicine.

Psychology

  • Studies show that believing in the medicinal properties of a treatment can significantly influence its effectiveness, known as the placebo effect.
  • The connection between mind and body highlights how mental health can also respond to medicinal approaches, like therapy combined with medication.
  • Cultural beliefs about health can affect how individuals perceive and use medicinal products, impacting their wellness choices.

Literature

  • Medicinal themes often appear in literature, symbolizing hope and recovery in stories about healing journeys.
  • Famous works highlight the struggles of access to medicinal resources, reflecting societal issues like inequality in healthcare.
  • Poets and authors frequently explore the blend of physical and emotional healing through language that evokes medicinal imagery.

Origin of 'medicinally'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'medicinalis,' meaning 'pertaining to healing,' which reflects its roots in healing practices.
  • It's derived from 'medicinus,' which means 'physician,' connecting it directly to the practice of medicine.
  • The term has been used since the late Middle Ages, evolving in its application across different cultures.

The term 'medicinally' derives from the root word 'medicine,' which has its origins in the Latin 'medicina,' meaning 'the healing art.' Over time, the word has evolved to encompass a wide range of substances and practices aimed at improving health. The suffix '-ally' is used to form adverbs indicating manner or relation. Thus, 'medicinally' describes actions or applications that relate directly to medicine or healing processes. Its usage is prevalent in both scientific literature and everyday language, highlighting the importance of plants, substances, and treatments in maintaining health. Throughout history, different cultures have relied on herbal and natural remedies, leading to a richer understanding of what it means to use something medicinally.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,276 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.