“Ipeca is a small shrub only 30 cm tall, which can be used as a medicinal plant to cause vomiting, stop diarrhea and release secretions from the respiratory system. It is also known as Ipecacuanha, Ipeca-authentic, poaia and poia gris, widely used to induce vomiting.
Its scientific name is Psychotria ipecacuanha and can be purchased in syrup in naturist shops and in some handling pharmacies, the parts used of this plant for phytotherapeutic purposes are its roots and this plant has large oval leaves dark green, bright and opposite, with white flowers that after being fertilized become small clusters of red fruits.
- Ipecacuanha is used to cause vomiting and help treat bronchitis.
- Pneumonia and ameba infestation.
- In the past.
- Ipeca was used in cases of poisoning.
- But this indication is no longer accepted by the FDA.
- The agency that regulates the marketing of drugs in the country.
- United States.
Ipecacuanha is a toxic plant and should only be used in industrialized form. An overdose is just 2g from 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.
Ipecacuanha contains emeine and cephaline, and can be used to treat ameba-induced diarrhea, such as expectorant, can be useful in cases of influenza, bronchitis and asthma, and also acts as an astringent and anti-inflammatory.
After excessive or prolonged ingestion of this plant, gastritis, tachycardia, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, shock and even carrying the coma may occur, effects that can be reversed by interrupting its consumption.
Ipecacuanha is counterpropened in children under 6 months of age, during pregnancy or when a person has ingested kerosene, gasoline or acidic or alkaline corrosive agents. As it is a toxic medicinal plant, it should only be used on medical advice.