allantoin
/əˈlantəʊɪn
/noun [mass noun] Biochemistry
A crystalline compound formed in the nitrogen metabolism of many mammals (excluding primates).
- A cyclic compound related to hydantoin; chemical formula: C4H6N4O3.
- Oftentimes, it is not the cortisol stimulating properties which are cited for their healing properties but some other biochemical agent such as allantoin in comfrey.
- Comfrey contains allantoin, a natural substance that stimulates the growth of new skin cells.
Origin
Mid 19th century: from allantois (because it was discovered in the allantoic fluid of cows) + -in1.