Dutch physician and trader Jan Adrian Helvetius (1661-1727) introduced the Ipecac plant to the King of France, Louis XIV, which he was using to cure dysentery. The king was so intrigued that he responded by demanding to know more about this plant remedy.
In 1912 the active components of the ipecac plant were discovered. Since then, it has been part of many pharmaceutical preparations.
Ipecac Plant Scientific Facts
- French: Ipecacuane.
- Spanish: Ipecacuana.
- Environment: Native to the rain forests of Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Mexico.
- Description: Shrub of the Rubiaceae family, growing from 30 to 50 cm high, with large, ringed roots and small, white flowers growing in terminal heads.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The root, ground into powder.
Healing Properties and Warning
The root of the Ipecac plant contains emetine and other alkaloids, as well as ipecac acid and saponins. Its properties are as follows:
- Emetic: Ipecac, because of emetine, easily induces vomiting. It is used to empty the stomach when a stomach washing cannot be performed in the case of poisoning.
- Expectorant: The saponins and emetine it contains give the plant an intense expectorant action in low doses, thus being part of several bronchial syrups.
- Amoeba-killer: Emetine destroys amoebas which cause amoebic dysentery and amoebic disorders of the liver. In these cases, any of the existing pharmaceutical preparations based on emetine is recommended.
WARNING! Never exceed the prescribed dose. Otherwise, it may produce violent vomiting. The root powder is very irritating to the skin.
Frequently Asked Question
Are there any studies investigating other potential uses of the ipecac plant beyond inducing vomiting?
While limited, some research is looking at other possible applications. Studies have suggested that minimal amounts of the alkaloids in ipecac (emetine and cephaline) might be used to treat specific parasitic infections like amoebiasis. However, this is preliminary, and ipecac is NOT a standard treatment for these conditions due to potential side effects.
What are the specific risks associated with ipecac plant use?
The primary risk is cardiotoxicity (damage to the heart). Prolonged use or excessive doses of ipecac can lead to weakening of the heart muscle, irregular heartbeat, and, in severe cases, heart failure.
Ipecac can also cause severe muscle weakness and damage due to electrolyte imbalances resulting from repeated vomiting.
Has the ipecac plant shown any potential interactions with other medications?
Yes. Ipecac may increase the risk of side effects from medications that also slow down the heart rate (such as beta-blockers or digoxin).
It can dangerously enhance the muscle-weakening side effects of certain medications (like some diuretics or corticosteroids).
Are there populations who should not use ipecac?
1. Ipecac should never be given to an unconscious or drowsy person due to the risk of aspiration (vomit entering the lungs).
2. Those with heart conditions, muscle disorders, or electrolyte imbalances are at very high risk for complications.
3. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use this plant.
Can small doses of the ipecac plant taken over time pose risks?
Yes. Chronic use of ipecac, even in small doses, can lead to a buildup of its alkaloids and a higher risk of heart and muscle damage. This is a significant reason why ipecac is not a weight-loss aid.
Why is the syrup of ipecac plant no longer readily available over the counter?
The widespread availability of ipecac led to abuse by those with eating disorders. Its ease of access also increased the number of accidental poisonings. These risks prompted restrictions on its sale.
Where can I find more reliable information about the risks and potential applications of this plant?
Your doctor or pharmacist is the best first resource when considering any medication or substance
Reputable online resources include:
1. National Institutes of Health https://www.nih.gov/
2. Medscape https://emedicine.medscape.com/
3. Drugs.com https://www.drugs.com/
Are there safer alternatives to ipecac for inducing vomiting when medically necessary?
Yes. In most emergencies where inducing vomiting might be considered, medical professionals rely on other methods, such as gastric lavage (stomach pumping) or the administration of activated charcoal. These are considered safer because they are administered in a controlled setting.
Are there any traditional medicine practices still using ipecac in specific ways?
Yes, some traditional medicine systems, like those within some areas of South America, may utilize this plant in highly controlled preparations for specific ailments. However, the self-administration of ipecac based on these practices is strongly discouraged due to its potential dangers.
Is there ongoing research into isolating specific beneficial compounds from the Ipecac plant?
While limited, there is interest in the potential medicinal properties of the alkaloids emetine and cephaline. Researchers are investigating if very controlled modifications of these compounds could be used for specific treatments. However, this is still in the early stages, and it does not mean raw ipecac is safe or beneficial.
How to use Ipecac
- Root powder: Four to six grams dissolved in water. For children, the dose is 0.1 g per year of age. It is used as a vomitive and expectorant.
- Syrup: One or two spoonfuls will induce vomiting;
- Infusion with 8 g of ground root in 250 ml of water. As an expectorant, take only four or five spoonfuls per hour to avoid vomiting.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. It would be best to not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 438. Print.
- https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/ipecac.html
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2743831/
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002883.htm