Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
ipecacuanha
Noun
/ˌɪpɪkəˈkwänyə/
Definition
Ipecacuanha is a medicinal plant whose root is used to induce vomiting in cases of poisoning or overdose.
Examples
- Ipecacuanha has been used historically to treat poisoning.
- In the past, ipecacuanha syrup was commonly found in homes as a remedy for accidental ingestion of toxic substances.
Meaning
The term refers to the root of the plant Cephaelis ipecacuanha, which contains compounds that stimulate the vomiting center in the brain.
Synonyms
- Ipecac
- Cephaelis