Description

Evergreen tree growing to 49 ft (15 m). Has glossy oval leaves, tubular white flowers, and yellow fruit containing 5–8 disk-shaped seeds.

Habitat & Cultivation

Nux vomica is native to Southeast Asia. It grows wild and is cultivated commercially. The seeds are gathered when mature.

Parts Used

Seeds.

Constituents

Nux vomica contains 3% indole alkaloids (predominantly strychnine, with many others), loganin, chlorgenic acid, and fixed oil. Strychnine is a lethal poison, producing intense muscle spasms.

History & Folklore

Nux vomica seeds were first brought to Europe in the 15th century, probably as a poison for game and rodents. In 1640, the seeds were first used in European medicine, as a stimulant.

Medicinal Actions & Uses

Though rarely used internally due to its toxicity, nux vomica can be an effective nervous system stimulant, particularly in the elderly. In Chinese herbal medicine the seeds are used externally to relieve pain, to treat various types of tumors, and to relieve paralysis, including Bell’s palsy (facial paralysis). Nux vomica is a common homeopathic remedy prescribed mainly for digestive problems, sensitivity to cold, irritability, and melancholia.

Research

In a Chinese clinical trial, a paste made from nux vomica seeds was applied to 15,000 patients with Bell’s palsy. The treatment was reported to have been effective in more than 80% of the cases.

Related Species

Many Strychnos species are equally potent and have been used as arrow poisons.

Cautions

Take nux vomica only in homeopathic preparations. This herb and strychnine are subject to legal restrictions in most countries.