Strychnos nux-vomica
Strychnos nux-vomica
Strychnos nux-vomica (pronunciation: /ˈstrɪk.nɒs nʌksˈvɒm.ɪkə/), also known as the poison nut or strychnine tree, is a deciduous tree native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. It is a member of the Loganiaceae family.
Etymology
The genus name Strychnos is derived from the Greek word strychnos, which was used to refer to a type of nightshade, but was later applied to this genus due to the toxic nature of the plants. The species name nux-vomica is Latin for "vomiting nut", a reference to the emetic properties of the seeds.
Description
The Strychnos nux-vomica tree grows to a height of about 25 meters. The bark is smooth and grey, with the wood being dense and white. The leaves are simple, opposite, and have a shiny green upper surface with a dull underside. The flowers are small, with a greenish-white color. The fruit is a round berry, about the size of a large apple, with a hard rind. Inside the fruit are several flat, disc-shaped seeds which are highly toxic.
Uses
Despite its toxicity, Strychnos nux-vomica has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The seeds contain the alkaloids strychnine and brucine, which have been used as a stimulant and a treatment for digestive issues, respectively. However, due to the high risk of poisoning, these uses are not recommended without professional supervision.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Strychnos nux-vomica
- Wikipedia's article - Strychnos nux-vomica
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