Homeopathic Database

Nux vomica is made from the seeds of the strychnine tree. Known botanically as Strychnos nux-vomica, this tree is a source of natural strychnine, a highly poisonous alkaloid used most commonly in the poisons used to kill mice and other nuisance animals.

To a homeopath, though, the seeds of the nux vomica tree—which can be as much as 1.5% strychnine—yield a remedy invaluable for people who have irritable stomachs and equally irritable personalities.

The Nux Vomica Physiology

Nux vomica patients tend to manifest symptoms in their digestive tracts. They tend to struggle with flatulence, bloating and reflux. They may also struggle with with diarrhea and constipation. It is not uncommon for a nux vomica patient to alternative between the two.

Nux vomica folks tend to have difficulty staying warm and are especially troubled by dry cold. They crave warm foods and foods that have a warming effect, like spicy, peppery foods.

Nux vomcia people also tend to be overly-represented among drug abusers and alcoholics. They especially tend to abuse stimulants like caffeine.

The Nux Vomica Physchology

The nux vomica patient is always described as “irritable” in traditional homeopathy. These folks are easily-angered, quarrelsome and quick to voice their displeasure. Their inability to “let it go” often keeps them awake at night; these are the folks who nurse a grudge long after the original offense has been forgotten by everyone else. And all too often, the “offense” took place only in the nux vomica person’s mind.

Nux Vomica in Homeopathic Medicine

In homeopathy, nux vomica is most often used to address various digestive conditions, like heartburn, indigestion and bloating but may also be employed for colds and respiratory infections where an expectorant is appropriate.

While the practice of using nux vomica as a hangover remedy is generally frowned upon, some herbal texts do suggest nux vomica for the headaches and upset stomach that follow an evening of over-indulgence.