CANTHARIS Meaning and
Definition
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Cantharis, also known as Spanish fly, is a species of beetle belonging to the family Meloidae. It is characterized by its vibrant metallic green color and elongated body shape, reaching an average size of about 1 to 1.5 cm. Found in various regions across Europe, Asia, and North Africa, Cantharis beetles inhabit grassy areas, meadows, and forests.
In terms of its medicinal use, Cantharis has been recognized for centuries due to its potent properties. The dried, powdered form of this beetle has been used in traditional medicine, particularly in homeopathy. It is believed to possess aphrodisiac qualities and has been utilized to treat various sexual and reproductive disorders.
The primary active ingredient in Cantharis is cantharidin, a natural substance that is considered toxic in larger quantities. This compound is notable for its blistering effect on the skin, making it a key component in certain topical preparations for treating conditions like warts, calluses, and molluscum contagiosum. However, caution must be exercised when utilizing Cantharis due to its potential toxicity, and its use should only be under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
In summary, Cantharis refers to a vivid green beetle from the Meloidae family, known for its medicinal applications, particularly in traditional medicine. Its use is primarily associated with the treatment of sexual and reproductive disorders, and its active ingredient cantharidin is recognized for its blistering properties and can be found in certain topical preparations.
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The Spanish fly, used in making blistering plasters.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CANTHARIS
- xantharis
- vantharis
- fantharis
- dantharis
- czntharis
- csntharis
- cwntharis
- cqntharis
- cabtharis
- camtharis
- cajtharis
- cahtharis
- canrharis
- canfharis
- cangharis
- canyharis
- can6haris
- can5haris
- cantgaris
Etymology of CANTHARIS
The word "Cantharis" has its etymology rooted in Ancient Greek. It comes from the Greek word "kantharis" (κάνθαρις), which refers to a type of beetle commonly known as the Spanish fly or blister beetle. The word originally had medicinal associations, as a substance derived from this beetle was used in traditional medicine for its purported aphrodisiac qualities. Over time, the term "Cantharis" has broadly come to encompass the entire genus of beetles known as blister beetles.
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