MANNITES
MANNITE
Man"nite, n. Etym: [Cf. F. mannite.]
1. (Chem.)
Definition: A white crystalline substance of a sweet taste obtained from a
so-called manna, the dried sap of the flowering ash (Fraxinus ornus);
– called also mannitol, and hydroxy hexane. Cf. Dulcite.
HO.CH2.(CHOH)4.CH2.OH = D-mannitol; manna sugar; cordycepic acid;
Diosmol; Mannicol; Mannidex; Osmiktrol; Osmosal.
– used in pharmacy as excipient and diluent for solids and liquids.
Used as a food additive for anti-caking properties, or as a
sweetener. Also used to "cut" (dilute) illegal drugs such as cocaine
or heroin. ("excipient" use)
2. (Bot.)
Definition: A sweet white efflorescence from dried fronds of kelp,
especially from those of the Laminaria saccharina, or devil's apron.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition