Page 91 - Pharmacognosy 02-06203

I- Roots containing Isoquinoline alkaloids 1-
Ipecacuahna root ‫جذر عرق الذهب‬

Ipecacuahna is the dried root or root and rhizome of Cephaelis ipecacuanha
known as Rio or Brazilian ipecac or Cephaelis acuminata known as
Cartagena or Panama Ipecac, Family Rubiaceae.

Macroscopical Examination:

(See The Practical)

Microscopical Examination:

(See The Practical)

Powdered drug:

Constituents:
1-Alkaloids (main constituents)
Ipeca contains (2-3%) of isoquinoline alkaloids:
Emetine, psychotrine, cephaeline.
2- Glycosides:
Neutral isoquinoline glycoside: ipecoside.
3- Tannin: ipecacuanhin
4- An acid saponin: ipecacuanhic acid

Uses:
Ipeca is used as expectorant, diaphoretic, cholagogue & in treatment

of amoebic dysentery.
Ipeca is used as emetic, in the form of Ipeca syrup, in the treatment

of overdose and certain poisoning; it produces emesis through local irritant
effect on the gastrointestinal mucosa and a central medullary effect by
stimulation of chemoreceptors in the brain (vomiting centers).
Notes:

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