- Nux vomica is the dried, ripe seed of Strychnos nux-vomica L., a native tree of Burma, China, eastern India, Thailand, and northern Australia. There are reports of toxic effects with traditional use of the seeds or fruit of Strychnos nux-vomica L.
- In homeopathy, nux vomica is used for allergies, back pain, colds, constipation, digestive problems, emotional stress, flu, hangovers, headaches, hemorrhoids, and menstrual problems. Nux vomica is also a polycrest, or a homeopathic remedy used to treat many ailments. As a polycrest, nux vomica's primary indication is for disorders related to abuse of narcotic drugs, alcohol, coffee, or tobacco, overindulgence of rich food and beverages, and mental strain from excessive work.
- Athough nux vomica appeared as a treatment in 19th Century medical publications, there is very little documentation on its therapeutic effectiveness in today's standard medical journals. However, because nux vomica is a common homeopathic medicine, research continues on it, albeit in laboratory and animal studies. This remedy is in the category of unapproved herbs according to the German Commission E.