(n.) A diseased condition of rye and other cereals, in which the grains become black, and often spur-shaped. It is caused by a parasitic fungus, Claviceps purpurea.
(n.) The mycelium or spawn of this fungus infecting grains of rye and wheat. It is a powerful remedial agent, and also a dangerous poison, and is used as a means of hastening childbirth, and to arrest bleeding.
(n.) A stub, like soft horn, about the size of a chestnut, situated behind and below the pastern joint.
(n.) See 2d Calcar, 3 (b).
ergotic
(a.) Pertaining to, or derived from, ergot
as, ergotic acid.
ergotin
(n.) An extract made from ergot.
ergotine
A powerful astringent alkaloid extracted from ergot as a brown, amorphous, bitter substance. It is used to produce contraction of the uterus.
ergotism
(n.) A logical deduction.
(n.) A diseased condition produced by eating rye affected with the ergot fungus.