Overview

Nux vomica comes from a plant called Strychnos nux-vomica. The seed of this plant is found in homeopathic products. Although these products are commonly used for nausea, vomiting, and a variety of health problems, their benefits are not well defined. Homeopathic nux vomica products are usually well tolerated, but pure nux vomica is toxic when taken by mouth. Before taking nux vomica, make sure to tell your health care provider about any health conditions you have or medicines you are taking.

Uses

What is nux vomica used for?

Homeopathic nux vomica (Strychnos nux-vomica) is used for nausea, vomiting, and other health purposes, but its benefits for any use are not well defined.

Note: The FDA has not reviewed nux vomica for safety and effectiveness. Learn more about homeopathic products here.

How does nux vomica work (mechanism of action)?

Nux vomica comes from a plant called Strychnos nux-vomica. Products that contain nux vomica are made from the seeds of the plant, which are poisonous. Nux vomica seeds contain strychnine and brucine, which are toxic chemicals that can cause serious side effects when taken by mouth.

Most nux vomica products are homeopathic, meaning they are very dilute and contain only very small amounts of nux vomica. In some cases, these amounts are so small that there may not be any nux vomica in the product at all. These very small amounts are unlikely to cause serious side effects. However, some homeopathic products have been found to contain more than stated on the label. Use caution with all nux vomica products. There is no evidence that it is beneficial for any use.

Herbal products like nux vomica naturally contain many different chemicals, including strychnine. The amounts of each chemical in a specific nux vomica product may vary. Some, none, or all of these chemicals may have effects on the body. These effects may change depending on how much of each chemical is found in the product you are using.

How should I store nux vomica?

You should store nux vomica according to the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of nux vomica?

Homeopathic nux vomica products are usually well tolerated. But pure nux vomica can cause serious side effects (see below).

There may be other side effects of nux vomica that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a supplement. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov or by calling 888-SAFEFOOD (888-723-3366). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of nux vomica?

While less common, the most serious side effects of nux vomica are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Nux vomica may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking nux vomica and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

• Breathing problems or wheezing
• Racing heart
• Fever or general ill feeling
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
• Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
• Itching or skin rash
• Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
• Stomach cramps
• Joint pain

Strychnine Poisoning. Pure nux vomica contains strychnine, which can cause poisoning within 15-60 minutes of use. Strychnine changes the signals sent by your nerves to your muscles. This causes severe, painful muscle spasms that can lead to trouble breathing and death. Stop taking nux vomica and seek medical help right away if you have the following symptoms of strychnine poisoning.

• Agitation or restlessness
• Jaw tightness
• Muscle pain or soreness
• Painful muscle spasms that may cause your neck or back to arch uncontrollably
• Dark urine
• Trouble breathing

Precautions

Who should not use nux vomica?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take nux vomica.

• Nux vomica
• Strychnos nux-vomica
• Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific nux vomica products they stock.

What should I know about nux vomica before using it?

Pure nux vomica contains toxic chemicals that can cause serious health problems. Do not eat nux vomica seeds or use products that contain pure nux vomica.

Most nux vomica products are homeopathic, meaning that they contain only very small amounts of nux vomica. These small amounts are unlikely to be poisonous or cause serious side effects. But some homeopathic products have been found to contain larger amounts than listed on the label. These large amounts can cause serious side effects. The FDA has not tested nux vomica products to confirm that they contain the ingredients or amounts stated on their labels. Learn more about the risks of homeopathic products here.

Read and follow the directions on the specific product you are taking, or take it as recommended by your health care provider.

Keep nux vomica out of the reach of children. Infants and small children are at a greater risk for side effects from nux vomica. Speak to a health care provider before giving your child a product that contains nux vomica, even if the product is labeled as homeopathic.

Herbal products, such as nux vomica, naturally contain many different chemicals. The amount of each chemical in a specific nux vomica product can change for many reasons, including the area where the plant was grown, the weather during growth, the time of year when it was harvested, and the way the plant was processed after being harvested. If you switch to a new bottle or a different brand, you may not have the same effects or side effects because of this variability. Talk to your health care provider if you have questions or concerns.

What should I tell my health care provider before using nux vomica?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if nux vomica is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how nux vomica could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. But pure nux vomica can be toxic. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if nux vomica passes into breast milk, but pure nux vomica may cause harm to an infant or small child. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does nux vomica interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between nux vomica and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect nux vomica.

Does nux vomica interact with medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

The interactions between nux vomica and medicines are not fully understood. As with most dietary supplements, research on drug interactions with nux vomica is incomplete. Always check with your health care provider before taking nux vomica with any medicines.

Dosing

What should I do if I accidentally use too much nux vomica?

If you or someone else has used too much nux vomica, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

Nux vomica is available in homeopathic products. Pure nux vomica should be avoided. Read the product label closely and speak to a health care provider about how to take nux vomica safely. Do not take double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.