Question 1

How does Strychnos nux-vomica work as a nerve tonic?

Accepted Answer

Strychnos nux-vomica contains strychnine and brucine as primary active compounds. Strychnine acts as a competitive antagonist at glycine receptors in the spinal cord, blocking inhibitory neurotransmission. This produces CNS stimulation and increased motor neuron excitability. At minute, detoxified doses used in Ayurveda, this mechanism may enhance nerve signaling and muscle responsiveness, supporting its traditional use in paralysis rehabilitation. Evidence level: C.

Question 2

Is Strychnos nux-vomica safe during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

No, Strychnos nux-vomica is unsafe during pregnancy. Strychnine and brucine can cross the placenta and may cause fetal harm, including convulsions and potential fetal death. The uterine stimulation properties may also trigger premature labor. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy should avoid all nux-vomica preparations. Evidence level: C.

Question 3

What is the safe dosage of Strychnos nux-vomica?

Accepted Answer

Strychnos nux-vomica should ONLY be used in properly detoxified (shodhit) Ayurvedic preparations under qualified practitioner supervision. Traditional Ayurvedic texts specify minute doses, typically measured in milligrams of processed seed material. The therapeutic window is extremely narrow, and self-medication is strictly contraindicated. Raw seeds are potentially lethal and should never be used internally. Evidence level: Traditional.

Question 4

Does Strychnos nux-vomica interact with medications?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Strychnos nux-vomica may interact with CNS-stimulating medications, causing additive stimulation and increased seizure risk. Concurrent use with drugs that lower seizure threshold, such as certain antidepressants and antipsychotics, is particularly dangerous. Strychnine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, so medications affecting these pathways could alter strychnine levels. Professional guidance is essential for any combination. Evidence level: C.

Question 5

Why are raw nux-vomica seeds dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Raw Strychnos nux-vomica seeds contain high concentrations of strychnine, a potent neurotoxin. Ingestion causes uncontrolled muscle contractions, spinal rigidity, convulsions, respiratory failure, and death. There is no safe home preparation method. Ayurvedic shodhit (detoxification) processes reduce strychnine content, but must be performed by trained practitioners. Self-treatment with raw seeds has caused numerous documented fatalities. Evidence level: C.

Question 6

What is Strychnos nux-vomica used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, properly detoxified Strychnos nux-vomica seeds are traditionally used as a nerve tonic, for paralysis rehabilitation, as a digestive stimulant, and as an aphrodisiac. Homeopathic preparations use highly diluted forms for various conditions. The raw seeds are never used internally due to lethal strychnine content. All internal uses require professional guidance and properly processed preparations. Evidence level: C.

Strychnos nux-vomica

Sources & Citations

Summary

Background

Traditional uses

Active compounds

Mechanism of action

Clinical evidence

Safety & adverse effects

Evidence summary

PubMed sources

Government sources