|
| Cephaèlis
ipecacuanha |
 |
| Name |
| Ipecacuanha |
| Biological
Name |
Cephaèlis ipecacuanha
Rubiaceae |
| Other Names |
| Ipecacuanha, Ipecac, Rio, Matto Grosso |
| Parts Used |
| Root and rhizome |
| Active Compounds |
Isoquinoline alkaloids; usually about 2-3%, consisting mainly
of emetine and cephaeline, with psychotrine, O-methylpsychotrine,
emetamine and protoemetine
Tannins; ipecacuanhin and ipecacuanhic acid
Glycosides such as ipecoside (a monoterpene isoquinoline derivative)
& saponins
Allergens, a mixture of glycoproteins of mol. wt. 35,000-40,000
Miscellaneous; starch, choline, resins. |
| Remedies
For |
Expectorant, emetic, sialagogue, anti-protozoal.
Ipecacuanha is mainly used as an expectorant in bronchitis and
conditions such as whooping cough. At higher doses it is a powerful
emetic and is used in the treatment of poisoning. Care must be taken
in the use of this herb. After an effective emetic dose has been
given, large amounts of water should be taken as well. Ipecac helps
expectoration through stimulation of mucous secretion and its removal.
It stimulates the production of saliva. It has been found effective
in the treatment of amoebic dysentery.
Combinations: In bronchial conditions Ipecac combines well with
White Horehound, Coltsfoot and Grindelia. In amoebic dysentery it
may be used with American Cranesbill or Echinacea. |
| Description |
Native to tropical South America, including Brazil, and cultivatedin
southern Asia. |
| Dosage |
Infusion; as this is a very powerful herb, only a small amount
should be used. 0.01-0.25 grams of the herb are used for an infusion.
Pour a cup of boiling water onto a small amount of the herb (equaling
the size of a pea) and leave to infuse for 5 minutes. This can be
drunk three times a day. If you need to use it as an emetic, l-2
grams should be used, which equals l/4 - l/2 teaspoonful when used
for an infusion. |
| Safety |
Use extreme care in the use of this herb. After an effective emetic
dose has been given, large amounts of water should be taken.
No other information available. Some herbs are known to react with
your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on
any herb. |
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