Chem. [f. ALOE + -IN.] The bitter purgative principle in aloes, C17H18O7, which crystallizes in prismatic needles of a pale yellow color, and has a taste, at first sweet, and then intensely bitter.
1851. T. & H. Smith, in Jrnl. Med. Sc., Feb. 129 To the new crystalline substance we have given the name of aloin.
1863. Watts, Dict. Chem., I. 148. Caustic and carbonated alkalis dissolve aloin with a bright yellow colour.
