What is Ipeca used for?

Ipeca is a small shrub, only 30 cm high, which can be used as a medicinal plant to induce vomiting, to stop diarrhea and to release secretions from the respiratory system. It is also known as Ipecacuanha, true ipeca, poaia and gray poia, much used to provoke vomiting.

Its scientific name is Psychotria ipecacuanha and can be bought in the form of syrup in natural products stores and in some pharmacies of manipulation. The used parts of this plant for phytotherapeutic purposes are its roots and this plant has large oval leaves in dark green shades and opposite, with white flowers that after being fertilized they become small clusters of red fruits.

Indications of Ipeca

Ipecacuanha serves to induce vomiting and to assist in the treatment of bronchitis, pneumonia and amoeba infestation. In the past, Ipeca was used in case of poisoning, but this indication is no longer accepted by the FDA, the agency that regulates the marketing of medicines in the United States.

How to use Ipeca

Ipecacuanha is a toxic plant and should only be used industrially. Overdosage is only 2g of its roots and can cause serious health problems. Its compounds can reach the Central Nervous System and cause hallucinations and can be used in religious rituals.

Properties of Ipeca

Ipecacuanha has emetin and cephalin, and can be used in the treatment against diarrhea caused by amoebae, as an expectorant can be useful in case of influenza, bronchitis and asthma, and also acts as an astringent and anti-inflammatory.

Side effects of Ipeca

After excessive or prolonged ingestion of this plant can occur gastritis, tachycardia, low blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, seizures, shock and can lead to even coma. These effects can be reversed by ceasing your intake.

Contraindications of Ipeca

Ipecacuanha is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age during pregnancy or when a person has ingested kerosene, gasoline or acid or alkaline corrosive agents. Because it is a toxic medicinal plant, it should only be used under medical advice.