What is "algarot"

Algarot \Al"ga*rot\, Algaroth \Al"ga*roth\, n. [F. algaroth, fr. the name of the inventor, Algarotti.] (Med.) A term used for the Powder of Algaroth, a white powder which is a compound of trichloride and trioxide of antimony. It was formerly used in medicine as an emetic, purgative, and diaphoretic. [1913 Webster] ||

n. A pale white emetic powder formerly used in alchemy, consisting of a compound of trichloride and trioxide of antimony.

Algarot, Antimony oxychloride, previously regarded a compound of trichloride and trioxide of antimony, is a pale white emetic powder formerly used in alchemy. It was used as an emetic because it purges violently both through regurgitation and diarrhea.