alum (redirected from potash alum)

alum /al·um/ (al´um)

1. a local astringent and styptic, prepared as an ammonium (ammonium a.) or potassium (potassium a.) compound; also used as an adjuvant in adsorbed vaccines and toxoids.

2. any member of a class of double sulfates formed on this type.

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al·um (lm)

n.

Any of various double sulfates of a trivalent metal such as aluminum or iron and a univalent metal such as potassium or sodium that are used as topical astringents and styptics.

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alum

[al′əm]

Etymology: L, alumen

a topical astringent, used primarily in lotions and douches.

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alum

any of several substances, including potassium alum, aluminum alum, ammonium alum, potash alum and aluminum potassium sulfate, with strong astringent properties. May be used as a styptic or hemostatic and as a topical antimycotic agent. It also may be given by mouth to induce vomiting. Large doses may cause gastrointestinal disturbances.