expectorant etymology

Etymology

The word "expectorant" is derived from the Latin words:

  • ex-, meaning "out" or "away"
  • pectus, meaning "chest"

Meaning

An expectorant is a substance or medication that helps to expel mucus and other secretions from the chest and airways.

Origin

The term "expectorant" was first used in the 17th century to describe substances that were believed to clear the chest of phlegm and other obstructive materials. These early expectorants were often made from herbs and natural products, such as honey, licorice, and thyme.

Over time, the development of modern medicine led to the development of more effective expectorants, including synthetic drugs and inhalers. These expectorants work by stimulating the production of mucus or by thinning and loosening existing mucus, making it easier to cough up.

Examples

Some common examples of expectorants include:

  • Guaifenesin (Mucinex)
  • Bromhexine
  • Acetylcysteine
  • Ambroxol
  • Albuterol (inhaler)

expectorant relate terms

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    Etymology Latin expectorāre meaning to spit out Roots ex out from pectus br

  • pectoral

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