salicylic acid
/ˌsalɪˈsɪlɪk
/noun [mass noun] Chemistry
A bitter compound present in certain plants. It is used as a fungicide and in the manufacture of aspirin and dyestuffs.
- Alternative name: o-hydroxybenzoic acid; chemical formula: C6H4(OH)(COOH).
- Anti-acne creams contain compounds such as salicylic acid, sulphur, and triclosan that are effective at killing bacteria and reducing the signs of acne.
- Raspberries are a rich source of the pollution-busting supernutrient ellagic acid and salicylic acid, nature's form of aspirin, which may help to deal with any light-headedness.
Origin
Mid 19th century: salicylic from French salicyle (the radical of the acid), from Latin salix, salic- 'willow'.