Anthraquinone
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Anthraquinone is a chemical compound with the formula C14H8O2, formed by the oxidation of anthracene. It consists of golden-yellow needle-shaped crystals and is used in medicine as a basis for various laxatives and dermatological treatments.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
Anthraquinone, C14H8O2, diphenylene ketone, product of anthracene oxidation, brilliant golden-yellow needle-shaped crystals; melting point 285°, insoluble in water, sparingly soluble in alcohol and ether, easily soluble in boiling benzene. Derivatives of A.—emodin and chrysophanic acid—account for the laxative effect of various plant preparations. Synthetic derivatives of A. used in medicine: 1) laxatives: purgatin, exodin, istizin, 2) used in dermatology: chrysarobin, anthrarobin, cignolin. Derivatives of anthraquinone are also used in the production of dyes.
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“Anthraquinone.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/anthraquinone/