You may need to induce vomiting if you or a family member swallow something toxic. An emetic is a substance that induces vomiting; syrup of ipecac, available over-the-counter at pharmacies, is a common emetic. You may also induce vomiting with some alternate home remedies, but do not induce vomiting in someone who swallowed poison until directed to do so by a doctor or a poison control center. For a poisoning emergency, call the U.S. Poison Help line at 800-222-1222.
Warm Salt Water
Drink warm salt water to induce vomiting. As the stomach fills with the salty solution, it may create a nauseous feeling and trigger vomiting, according to the website MD Health Network. Mix three tsp. of salt into 16 ounces of warm water. Do not induce vomiting in a victim of poisoning unless directed to do so by a medical professional.
Hot Mustard Water
A tablespoon of mustard, stirred into one cup of hot water may induce vomiting, according to the book, "Materia Medica and Therapeutics: An Introduction to the National Treatment of Disease." Depending upon the type of poison the individual swallowed, vomiting could cause more harm, so always consult a medical expert before inducing vomiting.
Gag Reflex
You can induce vomiting by triggering the person's gag reflex. If the individual, for example a child, will not drink the salt water or mustard water, you may make them vomit by inserting your finger in the person's mouth and rubbing gently along the back of the throat to trigger the gagging reflex. Do this only upon with your doctor's approval.
Soapy Water
The "Text-Book of Materia Medica for Nurses" suggests giving the patient soapy water to drink as an additional way to induce vomiting. No recommended dosage of a desirable soap to water ratio is available, so use this remedy only upon advice from your doctor.
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