Nux vomica

Nux vomica is a plant whose seeds are used to make medicine. Despite serious safety concerns, nux vomica is used to treat diseases of the digestive tract, cardiovascular disorders, eye disorders and lung diseases. It is also used for nervous system disorders, depression, migraine headaches, symptoms of menopause and a condition of the blood vessels called Raynaud's disease. Other uses include the treatment of anemia, as well as use as a tonic and appetite stimulant. Men use nux vomica for erectile dysfunction. In the industrial manufacturing sector, nux vomica is used as a rat poison as it contains strychnine and brucine, two deadly chemicals.

How does nux vomica work?

Nux vomica contains strychnine and other chemicals that can affect the brain and cause muscle contractions. This can lead to seizures and death. Strychnine can also be a serious problem in amounts too small to cause symptoms. Small amounts of strychnine accumulate in the body with continued use, particularly in people suffering from liver disease. This can be fatal within a few weeks. Strychnine poisoning can be diagnosed with the help of laboratory tests.

How effective is nux vomica?

There is not enough scientific data to make a statement about the effectiveness of nux vomica for erectile dysfunction, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular disorders, anemia, eye disorders, nervous system disorders, depression, migraine and lung disorders, as well as when used to stimulate appetite. Further scientific studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of nux vomica in these applications.

Safety and side effects

Nux vomica is not safe or harmless. Taking nux vomica for more than a week or in high amounts of 30 mg or more can cause serious side effects. Some of these side effects include restlessness, anxiety, dizziness, neck and back stiffness, spasms in the jaw and neck muscles, seizures, breathing problems, liver failure and death.

Precautions and warnings

No one should ingest nux vomica, but some people are at higher risk for the toxic effects of nux vomica.

Pregnancy and lactation: Ingestion of nux vomica can harm both mother and child. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid nux vomica products.

Liver diseases: The strychnine contained in nux vomica can cause liver damage or aggravate liver diseases.

Interactions

There is currently no information on interactions between nux vomica and medications or supplements.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of nux vomica depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At the present time, there is insufficient scientific data to be able to make a statement about appropriate dosage ranges for nux vomica. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.