Ipecac Herbal Remedies
In small doses, ipecac is often an ingredient in cough medicines because of its expectorant quality, and it has a long history of use for bronchitis. It also acts as an emetic when taken in large doses. It is used in syrup form to purge children over one year of age who have ingested poison, with the exception of strychnine, lye and strong acids, and petroleum distillates such as paint thinner. The herb was used traditionally to treat amebic dysentery. Ipecac has a taste of BITTER, ACRID and a temperature of COOL.
Ipecac Proper Dose
| Type | Dossage |
| Ipecac Homeopathic preparation | follow label directions |
| Ipecac Syrup | 1 teaspoon, as directed |
Ipecac Reference Information
| Latin Name | Cephaelis ipecacuanha |
| Other Names | Brazil root |
| Part Used | Root, Rhizome |
| Herb Forms | Syrup, homeopathic tablet. |
| Affects | Digestive system, Respiratory system |
| Cautions | Acts as an emetic. Avoid during pregnancy. |
| Botanical Info | A small evergreen shrub in the Coffee family native to South America. |
Supporting Research
Leung, A. and S. Foster. 1996. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients. New York: J. Wiley & Sons.
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Felter, H.W. and J.U. Lloyd. 1983. (1898). King's Dispensatory. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications.
Weiss, R. 1988. Herbal Medicine. Beaconsfield, England: Beaconsfield Publishers.
Wren, R.C. 1988. Potter's New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs. Essex: C.W. Daniel Co. Ltd.