Catechu

n.

1.

(Chem.) A dry, brown, astringent extract, obtained by decoction and evaporation from the Acacia catechu, and several other plants growing in India. It contains a large portion of tannin or tannic acid, and is used in medicine and in the arts. It is also known by the names terra japonica, cutch, gambier, etc.

Noun	1.	catechu - extract of the heartwood of Acacia catechu used for dying and tanning and preserving fishnets and sails; formerly used medicinally Synonyms: black catechu
	2.	catechu - East Indian spiny tree having twice-pinnate leaves and yellow flowers followed by flat pods; source of black catechu Synonyms: Acacia catechu, Jerusalem thorn

Acacia catechu, black catechu, extract, infusion, Jerusalem thorn