Ipecacuanha (often shortened to Ipecac) is a homeopathic remedy prepared from the root of a South American plant. Its defining theme is persistent nausea — in homeopathic practice it is traditionally associated with constant nausea that is not relieved by vomiting, a clean tongue, and spasmodic, gagging coughs.
This page covers Ipecac's plant source, its classic homeopathic indications, the characteristic picture, and the forms and potencies you may find.
The short version: Ipecacuanha is the homeopathic remedy for constant, unrelenting nausea that vomiting does not relieve — with a clean tongue.
What is Ipecacuanha and where does it come from?
Ipecacuanha is made from the dried root of Cephaelis ipecacuanha (also written Carapichea ipecacuanha), a low shrub native to Brazil and other parts of South America. The crude root has long been known for provoking nausea and vomiting; homeopathy uses it in diluted, succussed form, where its keynote of persistent nausea becomes the guiding symptom.
What is Ipecacuanha traditionally used for in homeopathy?
The remedy's picture is unusually focused. People reach for Ipecac when there is:
- Constant, overwhelming nausea that is not relieved by vomiting — the keynote.
- A clean, uncoated tongue despite the nausea.
- Spasmodic coughing with gagging or retching, sometimes ending in nausea.
- Bright red bleeding in classic descriptions.
- Nausea of pregnancy or travel where the sick feeling simply will not lift.
Who reaches for Ipecacuanha? The typical picture
The Ipecac state is dominated by relentless nausea — a green, sinking sickness that stays even after being sick. A striking feature is the clean tongue, which sets it apart from many digestive remedies. Complaints may feel worse from warmth, rich food and movement. Because the nausea is so constant, homeopaths regard it as one of the clearest keynote pictures in the materia medica.
What forms and potencies does Ipecacuanha come in?
Ipecacuanha is available as pillules, tablets and liquid drops, and is commonly used in low potencies such as 6C or 30C. You can explore single remedies and combinations across the full United Remedies range. Always follow the pack directions or practitioner guidance.
Common questions
What is Ipecacuanha used for in homeopathy?
It is traditionally associated with constant nausea not relieved by vomiting, a clean tongue, and spasmodic gagging coughs. It is educational information, not a treatment or cure for any illness.
What is the keynote of Ipecac?
Persistent, unrelenting nausea that stays even after vomiting, together with a surprisingly clean, uncoated tongue.
How is Ipecacuanha usually taken?
As pillules, tablets or drops in low potencies such as 6C or 30C. Follow the pack directions, and see a health professional for persistent vomiting or if you cannot keep fluids down.
Note: This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Homeopathic remedies are used within a tradition of self-care and are not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, please speak to a qualified health professional.