alterative

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[edit] English

From Latin alterativum, noun use of alterativus.

(UK) IPA: /ˈɒlt(ə)ɹətɪv/, SAMPA: /"Ql.t(@)r\.@/tIv/
(US) IPA: /ˈɔl.tɚˌaɪ.tɪv/, /ˈɔl.tɚ.ə.tɪv/, SAMPA: /"Ol.t@`%aI.tIv/, /"Ol.t@`.@.tIv/

alterative (plural alteratives)

(medicine, now historical) A medicine or treatment which works by changing processes within the body, rather than by evacuating something etc. [from 14th c.]
- 1621, Robert Burton, The Anatomy of Melancholy, II.5.1.v:
  
  Amongst this number of cordials and alteratives I do not find a more present remedy than a cup of wine or strong drink, if it be soberly and opportunely used.

alterative (comparative more alterative, superlative most alterative)

Causing alteration. Specifically: Gradually changing, or tending to change, a morbid state of the functions into one of health. [from 15th c.]