barilla

noun3

1. •
   Any of several not closely related saltmarsh plants that were once burnt to obtain soda ash, such as Soda inermis.
2. •
   The alkali produced from the plant, an impure carbonate of soda, used for making soap, glass, etc., and for bleaching.
3. •
   Impure soda obtained from the ashes of any seashore plant, or kelp.

   • Good barilla usually contains, according to Dr. Ure's analysis, 20 per cent. of real alkali, associated with muriates and sulphates, chiefly of soda, some lime, and alumina, with very little sulphur. — 1860