Glossary of Medical Terms

K

K

Symbol for Potassium

kcal

Kilocalorie (food calorie)

Kay Ciel

A potassium supplement

Kalium

Potassium

Kaposi's Sarcoma or Syndrome

Multiple idiopathic hemorrhagic sarcoma

Kary, Karyo

A combining form meaning nucleus, nuclear

Kava Kava Root

Piper Methysticum. Shrub which is a member of the pepper family. Kava has traditionally been used for its relaxing effects. The combination of root powder and standardized root extract provides the important kavalactones required for this feeling of well being and harmony. Absorption in the gastrointestinal tract is rapid, so the effects are felt almost immediately. Kava's muscle-relaxant properties are similar to those of potent tranquilizers as they both act on the central nervous system. Kava root is primarily used as a natural sedative and sleep inducer. It is also effective in reducing menstrual cramps. Kava is not recommended for those who intend to drive or conduct any activity which requires fast reaction time. Driving or operating heavy or dangerous equipment is not recommended while under the influence of Kava Kava, as drowsiness can occur. Kava Kava use is contraindicated during pregnancy or nursing, and in cases of depression. Do not take for more than 3 months, or more than 1,000 mg. per day without medical advice. Extended continuous intake can cause a temporary yellow discoloration of skin, hair and nails, in which case it must be discontinued. Discontinue use if dilationof pupils or disturbances of coordination between vision and movement occur.

Kelp

Fucus Vesiculosus. Usually refers to seaweeds of the brown alga order Laminariales which possess large, flat, leaflike fronds. Excellent source of minerals from the sea, particularly iodine which is very important for the thyroid gland to function properly. Provides nutritional support to the nervous system and heart in the form of iodine, minerals, vitamins and cell salts. Beneficial to the sensory nerves, membranes surrounding the brain, brain tissue and spinal cord. Used for hair loss, goiter, obesity and ulcers. Good for thyroid function, arteries, and nails. Also an important general and nutritive tonic herb which aids in the treatment of constipation & gastrointestinal ailments, heart disease, high blood pressure, infectious disease, obesity, respiratory disease, rheumatism & arthritis, and thyroid deficiency. Kelp provides nutritive support to the entire body, and improves circulatory stimulation. As well as lowering blood cholesterol levels

Keratin

Any of family of scleroproteins that for the epidermis, hair, nails and horny tissues

Keratinization

Process of replacing skin after sores or ulcers

Keratosis

Any horny growth such as a wart or callosity

Ketone Bodies

Acetoacetic acid, acetone, and beta-hydroxybutyrate present in excess in the blood and urine of diabetics

kg

kilogram

Kidney

One of the two kidney-bean-shaped organs located on both sides of the spine, just above the waist. They rid the body of waste materials and maintain fluid balance through the production of urine

Killer T-Cell

T-lymphocytes that have cytotoxic activity against target cells coated with a specific antibody

Kinetochore

Structure forming at centromere during Mitosis for binding microtubules

Knotgrass

Polyganum Aviculare--Also called Cowgrass, Hogweed, Pigweed, Pigrush, Bird's Tongue and Sparrow Tongue. Has astringent and diuretic properties. Used as an infusion of it useful in bleeding piles, diarrhea, and all hemorrhages. Used as a fresh juice has been found effectual to stay bleeding of the nose, squirted up the nose and applied to the temples, and made into an ointment it has proved an excellent remedy for sores

Knotted Figwort

Scrophularia Nodosa--Also called Scrofula Plant. Has anodyne and diuretic properties. Used mainly for inflammations, sprains, swellings, wounds and diseased parts, especially in scrofulous sores and gangrene. The leaves are bitter, acrid and nauseating, producing purging and vomiting if chewed

Kola Nut

Also called Cola Nut and Cola. Central nervous system stimulant, diuretic antidepressant, and astringent. Due to its caffeine content, Kola Nut may relieve some migraine headaches. The phenolics and anthrocyanin are likely to provide antioxidant activity. Used for for enduring fatigue without food; stimulating a weak heart; and treating nervous debility, anxiety, brooding, depression, despondency, lack of emotion,  nervous diarrhea, sea sickness and weakness. Do not use when caffeine is contraindicated. If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before using Kola Nut

17-KS

17-ketosteroids

KUB

Shorthand for kidney, ureter, and bladder tests

Kupffer Cells

Fixed macrophages lining the hepatic sinusoid

K-Y

K-Y jelly. A widely used water-soluble lubricant