Ergot

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Ergot

(n.) A diseased condition of rye and other cereals, in which the grains become black, and often spur-shaped. It is caused by a parasitic fungus, Claviceps purpurea.
(n.) The mycelium or spawn of this fungus infecting grains of rye and wheat. It is a powerful remedial agent, and also a dangerous poison, and is used as a means of hastening childbirth, and to arrest bleeding.
(n.) A stub, like soft horn, about the size of a chestnut, situated behind and below the pastern joint.
(n.) See 2d Calcar, 3 (b).