Cephaelis ipecacuanha (Ipecac)
Family: Rubiaceae
Part Used: radix
Active Constituents:
Alkaloids (emetine, dephaeline, ipecacuanhic acid), tannins, volatile oils
Medicinal Actions:
1) Ipecac is an irritant to the mucosa. It can cause sneezing attacks, dyspnea. Because of its effect as an irritant, an increase in secretion of mucus occurs and through stimulation of the cilia in the lungs, is expectorated.
2) Inhalation of the powder has triggered an asthmatic type attack in some people.
Ipecac is also an irritant to the GI tract.
3) It can cause ulceration, nausea and vomiting. It is well known as an emetic. In low dose, it is a choleretic, cholagogue and stimulant to the release of digestive enzymes. At high doses, it becomes an emetic.
4) It was used by the Eclectics reduce inflammation of the mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal and pulmonary systems.
5) Specific indications for the use of Ipecac, according to Felter, include “irritation of stomach, bowels, bronchial tubes, bronchioles, and pulmonic air cells and nervous system…;
6) hypersecretion of bronchial fluid with mucous rales (minute doses);
7) diminished expectoration (medium doses), irritative cough, with or without dyspnoea; hoarseness from coughs and colds”.
Contraindications: Pregnancy
Pharmacy:
Tincture (1:30): 1 – 20 drops Emetic dose: 2 – 4 ml
Syrup: 5 – 15 drops Emetic dose: 3 or more ml