The use of ipecacuanha (Carapichea ipecacuanha) in veterinary and human medicine

Abstract

The aim of review is to show the benefits of plant species Carapichea ipecacuanha, its unique emetic properties and various compounds. C. ipecacuanha is a plant native to South and Central American rainforests. Its root contains two powerful alkaloids, emetine and cephaeline, which have emetic and expectorant properties. These roots are used to make ipecac syrup, which is used in both human and veterinary medicine. The most important use of ipecac syrup is vomiting induction, after the toxic compounds ingestion or after a drug overdose. In low doses, it serves as an expectorant to thin mucus and relieve coughing. Chemical compounds, such as emetine and cephaeline extracted from the plant have multiple functions in treating various ailments. Thus, it is important to get familiar with this plant species from a medicinal perspective.