Laminaria

(lam-ina' -re-afi). I. A genus of algae, or seaweeds. Several species are rich in iodin. 2. The cured lower part of the stem of L. cloustoni, or L. digit at a. L. Bougie, a bougie made of the stalk; it is used for urethral dilatation. L. cornica, L. digit at a, devil' s-apron, tangle; sea-tangle, sea-girdles, or sea-wand; cairn-tangle, dead-man's toe, oarweed. A species found in Scotland, very rich in iodin; the stem is used for the manufacture of tents and bougies. L. esculent a, an edible species said to have anti-scorbutic properties. L. Probe, a probe made of the stalk, used to dilate the canaliculi and nasal duct. L. saccharin a, ribbon-weed; sea-belt, sweet-tangle, is rich in iodin and potash; it is used as food, and is also purgative. L. Tent, a tent made of the stem of the plant, for dilatation of the cervix uteri.