Nux vomica, also commonly called poison nut or Quaker buttons, is a medium-sized tree with a crooked trunk and irregular branches that's native to India, according to botanical.com. Nux vomica is used in homeopathic remedies by harvesting and sometimes crushing the seeds into a powder. The seeds contain the alkaloids brucine and strychnine, which are poisonous in even small doses. Homeopathy uses Nux vomica in minute amounts, often 1/10 of a grain or less.
Insomnia
Nux vomica is used primarily for insomnia or sleeplessness related to anxiety, anger or medication side effects or from use of drugs, caffeine or alcohol, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Nux vomica will induce sleep, but the sleep is light and easily disrupted, reports the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS). The UMMC notes that Nux vomica is typically not suitable for children who often have troubling dreams or nightmares or other individuals who are easily awakened.
Alcoholism
Nux vomica is often used as a homeopathic remedy to ease the effects of alcohol withdrawal in people recovering from alcoholism, according to the UMMC. The plant is used to ease symptoms of nervousness, irritability and compulsiveness, as well as vomiting, nausea and constipation. Nux vomica can also help with oversensitivity to smells, touch, light and noises in patients experiencing alcoholism-related withdrawals, reports the UMHS.
Digestive Tract Uses
Nux vomica has homeopathic benefits for treating a wide range of digestive system problems, primarily for indigestion but also for chronic constipation, lack of appetite, upset stomach, stomach pain or cramps and gas or bloating, according to the UMHS. Nux vomica's high levels of the alkaloid strychnine act as a stimulant in the gastrointestinal tract, increasing appetite and stimulating peristalsis, reports botanical.com.
Cardiac Uses
Nux vomica has several cardiac-related uses, particularly for its effects on blood pressure, notes botanical.com. The plant's concentrations of strychnine deepen and quicken respiration and slow the heart. Patients who benefit from doses of Nux vomica may be easily angered or frustrated, impatient, or may overindulge in caffeine, alcohol, drugs and other stimulants, notes the UMHS. Nux vomica can relieve blood pressure problems related to these symptoms.
Asthma
People who experience asthma symptoms or attacks that are brought on by abuse of alcohol or stimulants, as well as overindulgence in sweets or strong foods, can benefit from the homeopathic use of Nux vomica, according to the UMHS. Nux vomica can relieve the feelings of chest constriction during asthma attacks, as well as stomach pressure, chilliness, irritability and impatience.
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