Nux Vomica: Definition, History and Characteristics
Abstract
Nux vomica is a plant native to India and Southeast Asia and is a member of the Strychnaceae family. Its botanical name is Strychnos nux-vomica and it is commonly known as poison nut, strychnine tree, or Quaker buttons. It has a long history of use in traditional medicines, and its primary active constituents are strychnine and brucine. This article will discuss the definition, history, and characteristics of nux vomica, along with a few references for further reading.
Definition
Nux vomica is a small evergreen tree or shrub that is native to India and Southeast Asia. It grows up to 10–15 meters in height and has yellowish-brown bark that peels off in thin layers. Leaves are glossy-green in color and are arranged in opposite pairs. It bears small, yellowish-green flowers with five petals and produces round, greenish-yellow fruits that contain a single seed.
History
Nux vomica has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It was first used in India as early as the 5th century BC and was later exported to Europe. In the 17th century, it was used to treat a variety of ailments including insomnia, indigestion, and nervousness. It was also used to treat snake bites and was believed to have aphrodisiac qualities.
Characteristics
The primary active constituents of nux vomica are strychnine and brucine. Strychnine is a highly toxic alkaloid that can be deadly in even small doses. Brucine is also toxic, but it is less potent than strychnine. It is important to note that nux vomica is highly toxic and should not be ingested by humans or animals.
Conclusion
Nux vomica is a plant native to India and Southeast Asia and is a member of the Strychnaceae family. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine and its primary active constituents are strychnine and brucine. It is important to note that nux vomica is highly toxic and should not be ingested by humans or animals.
References
Coon, J. T., Ernst, E., & Goldberg, A. (2005). Strychnos nux-vomica: A systematic review of its traditional and modern clinical uses. Phytotherapy Research, 19(5), 372–378. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.1654
Goyal, G. (2012). Nux Vomica: A Review. International Journal of Pharma and Bio Sciences, 3(2), B112–B117. Retrieved from https://www.ijpbs.net/sites/default/files/33B112.pdf
Prabhu, G., & Patil, S. (2017). Nux vomica: An overview. International Journal of Research and Reports in Pharmacology, 4(1), 1–4. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/315545288_Nux_vomica_An_Overview