herb data, Ipecacuanha, Cephačlis ipecacuanha, Ipecac, Rio, Matto Grosso, holisticonline.com

Herb Information

Name: Ipecacuanha

Biological Name: Cephačlis 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.