What Is Nux Vomica 30C?


 by Marcia Frost

Strychnos nux vomica is a plant found most often in Australia and the southern part of Asia. It is used as a homeopathic remedy, a natural substance that elevates symptoms and aids the body’s healing ability.

Strychnos nux vomica is a plant found most often in Australia and the southern part of Asia. It is used as a homeopathic remedy, a natural substance that elevates symptoms and aids the body's healing ability. The seeds of the Strychnos nux vomica plant are used to make the nux vomica 30C supplement, sold as pellets in health and wellness stores.

History

Nux vomica, called "poison nut," was originally used just in veterinary medicine. R.A. McIntosh notes the supplement's use on animals beginning in the seventeenth century in "Nux Vomica and its Uses," an article he wrote for the "Canadian Journal of Comparative Medicine and Veterinary Science" in 1940. He traced vomica's ability to treat a wide range of symptoms was discovered in trials with humans. Eventually, it was discovered that nux vomica could aid in digestion and stimulate motor skills.

Dose & Potency

Homeopathic medicine grades by potency and dosage. A designation of 30 rates a homeopathic remedy as medium potency and is a common potency used in the United States for chronic health problems and seasonal ailments. Centesimal is a potency based on one part of the substance to 99 parts dilution. Supplements designated with a "30C," such as nux vomica 30C, contain this ratio in medium potency.

Useful for Many Ailments

Studies by homeopathic researcher and teacher Dr. Paul Herscu show Nux vomica as helpful with symptoms -- such as coughs, fever, nausea and muscle spasms -- from the flu strands of 2007, 2008 and 2009. Dr. Herscu also states in his 2009 study that Nux vomica may be the preferred homeopathic remedy for bird and swine flu, the latter of which is known as H1N1. According to the National Center for Homeopathy, 30C is the potency most used for influenza. Since Nux vomica 30c works on so many symptoms, it is also used for other gastrointestinal and nerve disorders, as well as headaches and respiratory problems.

Warning

The Center for Disease Control lists Nux vomica as a chemical hazard. The CDC warning states that Nux vomica -- through ingestion, inhalation or contact through skin and eyes -- targets the central nervous system. It can cause symptoms that include anxiety, convulsions and cyanosis. It may be especially dangerous to those who are pregnant or have liver conditions. Use caution when taking Nux vomica; immediately contact a health professional if you experience any of these problems.

Considerations

While there have been studies such as the one by Dr. Herscu acknowledging the health benefits of nux vomica, medical studies on the plant's abilities are limited. Do not take this in lieu of any prescribed medications without consulting with your doctor as to whether nux vomica 30c will be helpful for your symptoms.

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