This is an adjective characterising SCURVY; typically swollen, spongy gums that bleed easily, and spontaneous haemorrhages and bruising anywhere in the body.
adj. affected with scurvy.
Agents that relieve or cure scurvy. Bogbean, Burdock, Chickweed, Clivers, Cubebs, Blue Flag root, Lemon juice, Sorrel, Nettles, Sarsaparilla, Yellow Parilla, Yellow Dock, Watercress. ... anti-scorbutics