Nux vomica (family Loganiaceae) is commonly known as kuchla. It is a major source of the highly poisonous, intensely bitter alkaloids strychnine and brucine derived from the seeds inside the tree’s round, green to orange fruit.[1] The seeds contain approximately 1.5% strychnine, and the dried blossoms contain 1.0%.[2] However, the tree’s bark also contains brucine and other poisonous compounds. Kuchla contain 2.6%–3% total alkaloids, out of which 1.25%–1.5% is strychnine, 1.7% is brucine, and the rest are vomicine and igasurine.[3] Some other minor alkaloids are α-colubrine, β-colubrine, 3-methoxyamine, protostrychnine, novacine, n-oxystrychnine, pseudostrychnine, isostrychnine, chlorogenic acid, and a glycoside, loganin.[4] Crude drug kuchla is used in the treatment of anemia, lumbago, asthma, bronchitis, constipation, diabetes, malarial fever, skin disease, paralysis, muscle weakness, and appetite loss.[5] Suppressive effect of S. nux-vomica was observed on the induction of ovalbumin-specific IgE antibody response in mice.[6] Strychnine was identified and analyzed in detoxified kuchla seeds using liquid chromatography-electrospray mass spectrometry.[7] Strychnine and brucine were separated and quantified in S. nux-vomica by nonaqueous capillary electrophoresis.[8] Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) and time of flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS) analysis of crude and processed S. nux-vomica seeds allowed rapid screening of alkaloid components.[9]
STRYCHNINE AND SALTS is a colorless to white crystals. Used as a rodenticide. Burns, though difficult to ignite. Toxic by ingestion. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion.
Uses / Indications of Nux Vomica
- Erectile dysfunction (ED, impotence)
- Diseases of the stomach and intestines
- Heart and blood system disorders
- Tired blood (anemia)
- Diseases of the eye
- Nerve disorders
- Depression
- A migraine
- Lung disease
- Stimulating the appetite
- Digestive problems such as constipation, bloating, heartburn, and nausea
- Male infertility and impotence
- Colds and flus, particularly in the early stages of the virus
- Allergies
- Back pain
- Irritability, impatience, and high sensitivity to stimuli, caused by stress or mental strain
- Headaches and migraines symptoms such as a sore scalp, frontal pain, light sensitivity, or stomach problems
- Hangovers
- Menstrual problems
- Insomnia
The Dosage of Nux Vomica
- Adult and children 2 years of age and older – Dissolve 5 pellets under the tongue 3 times a day until relieved or as directed by a doctor.
or
- Acute – Take 4 drops per dose orally every 15 minutes for up to 6 doses, then 3 times a day as required.
- Chronic – Take 4 drops per dose orally 3 times a day as required.
References
