Nux vomica is a plant. The seed is used to make medicine.
Contents
Uses
Despite serious safety concerns, nux vomica is used for diseases of the digestive tract, disorders of the heart and circulatory system, diseases of the eye, and lung disease. It is also used for nerve conditions, depression, migraineheadache, symptoms of menopause, and a blood vessel disorder called Raynaud’s disease.
Other uses include treatment of “tired blood” (anemia), as a tonic, and as an appetite stimulant.
Men use nux vomica for erectile dysfunction (ED, impotence).
In manufacturing, nux vomica is used as rat poison. That’s because it contains strychnine and brucine, two deadly chemicals.
Benefits
Some people believe that nux vomica has anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-inflammatories are used to treat conditions that are worsened by inflammation, such as rheumatism, asthma, or hemorrhoids. One study found that nux vomica was effective in reducing the inflammation in rat paws.
Studies have shown that nux vomica contains powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants protect you against free radicals, which are chemicals in your body that can damage your cells.
The flowers of nux vomica are also believed to have antibacterial properties. According to one study, these properties could potentially be beneficial for use in antiseptics.
Cautions
You shouldn’t use nux vomica if you have liver disease, as it can cause liver damage.
Nux vomica shouldn’t be taken in high doses, or used as a long-term treatment. Taking too much can cause serious symptoms, including:
- restlessness
- anxiety
- dizziness
- back stiffness
- liver failure
- breathing problems
- seizures
The potential neurologic side effects of nux vomica are very serious. Because of this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list nux vomica as a chemical hazard.
You should consult your doctor before using nux vomica to treat male infertility or erectile dysfunction. They can help determine the underlying cause of the issue, and offer more effective treatments.
Tell your doctor about all of the medications you’re taking. Nux vomica can cause dangerous drug interactions, especially with antipsychotics.
It’s also important to note that while nux vomica has antioxidants, which are beneficial to overall health, taking antioxidants in doses that are too high can result in health problems.
Interactions
None known.
Other names
Brechnusssamen, Kuchla, Kupilu, Noix Vomique, Nuez Vomica, Nux Vom, Poison Nut, Quaker Buttons, Shudha Kupilu, Strychni Semen, Strychnos Seed, Strychnos nux-vomica, Vishamushti, Vomiquier
References
Source: Healthline, http://www.healthline.com/health/nux-vomica-male-infertility#Benefits2