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jal·ap | \ ˈja-ləp 
, ˈjä- \
, ˈjä- \Definition of jalap
1a : the dried tuberous root of a Mexican plant (Ipomoea purga synonym Exogonium purga) of the morning-glory family also : a powdered purgative drug prepared from it that contains resinous glycosides
b : the root or derived drug of plants related to the one supplying jalap
2 : a plant yielding jalap
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jalap
nounjal·ap | \ ˈjal-əp , ˈjäl- \
, ˈjäl- \Medical Definition of jalap
1a : the dried tuberous root of a Mexican plant of the genus Ipomoea (I. purga) also : a powdered purgative drug prepared from this root that contains resinous glycosides
b : the root or derived drug of plants related to the one supplying jalap — see tampico jalap
2 : a plant yielding jalap
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Time Traveler for jalap
The first known use of jalap was in 1644
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