Quinine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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quinine
[ˈkwɪnaɪn ]
Definition
medicine use
Quinine is a medication that is primarily used for treating malaria, a disease caused by parasites transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It works by interfering with the growth and reproduction of the malaria parasite in the red blood cells. Quinine has also been used historically to treat nighttime leg cramps and certain types of arrhythmias, although these uses are now less common. Quinine is derived from the bark of the cinchona tree and has a bitter taste, which led to its use in tonic water.
Synonyms
antimalarial, chinchona, cinchona.
Examples of usage
- She took quinine to prevent malaria.
- Quinine was once the only effective treatment for malaria.
- The tonic water contained quinine, which gave it a distinct flavor.
- Doctors prescribed quinine for her chronic leg cramps.
- He learned about the historical use of quinine in his pharmacology class.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Quinine was first derived from the bark of the cinchona tree in Peru, which was used by indigenous people for its healing properties.
- European colonists learned about quinine from South American natives in the 17th century and began using it to treat fevers.
- The term 'quinine' comes from the Quechua word 'kina' which means 'bark.'
Science
- Quinine is classified as an alkaloid and has strong antimalarial properties, making it effective against malaria parasites.
- It works by interfering with the parasite's ability to digest hemoglobin in red blood cells, leading to its death.
- Recently, researchers have explored quinine's potential in treating other diseases, including lupus and nocturnal leg cramps.
Pop Culture
- Quinine gives tonic water its characteristic bitter flavor, making it a popular mixer for cocktails like gin and tonic.
- The use of quinine in drinks has been linked to its historical effectiveness as a preventive measure against malaria.
Literature
- Quinine appears in historical literature and travel accounts, often described as a miraculous cure for fever during colonial times.
- In some novels set in tropical regions, quinine symbolizes the clash between traditional remedies and modern medicine.
Cultural Significance
- Quinine played a crucial role in the colonization of Africa and Asia, as it enabled European explorers and colonists to survive in malaria-infested regions.
- The bark of the cinchona tree is now planted in many places around the world, showcasing its importance beyond its native habitat.
Origin of 'quinine'
The term 'quinine' originates from the Latin word 'quina,' referring to the cinchona tree's bark from which it is derived. This bark was used by indigenous people in South America for centuries as a treatment for fevers and other ailments. European colonizers in the 17th century discovered this use and brought it back to Europe, where it gained popularity as a potent treatment for malaria. By the 19th century, quinine became widely recognized as the primary treatment for the disease, leading to its industrial production and widespread use in tonic water to mask its bitter taste. Its importance in medicine continued into the 20th century, although the development of synthetic antimalarial drugs has reduced its prevalence in recent years. The historical significance of quinine not only lies in its medical use but also in its role in the spread of European colonization in tropical regions where malaria was prevalent.