A powder made from the bodies of dried beetles causing inflammation of the urinary tract.
Dried insects of the species Cantharis vesicatoria; poisonous if taken internally in large doses. It was formerly used externally as a counterirritant and vesicant, and internally for its supposed aphrodisiac effect. It is no longer used.
Cantharidin, also known as a chemical derived from Spanish flies, serves as a blistering agent when applied topically and a strong purgative when ingested. While it has a reputation for stimulating the reproductive organs, using it for this purpose can lead to severe adverse effects, particularly on the kidneys. It is also referred to as cantharidin.