ipecacuanha

ip·e·cac  (p-kk) also ip·e·cac·u·an·ha (p-kky-n)

n.

1.

a. A low-growing tropical American shrub (Cephaelis ipecacuanha) having roots and rhizomes that yield emetine.

b. The dried roots and rhizomes of this shrub.

2. A medicinal preparation made from the dried roots and rhizomes of this shrub that is used to induce vomiting, particularly in cases of poisoning and drug overdose.

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[Short for Portuguese ipecacuanha, from Tupi ipekaaguéne : ipeh, low + kaâ, leaves + guéne, vomit.]

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ipecacuanha [ˌɪpɪˌkækjʊˈænə], ipecac [ˈɪpɪˌkæk]

n

1. (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Plants) a low-growing South American rubiaceous shrub, Cephaelis ipecacuanha

2. (Medicine / Pharmacology) a drug prepared from the dried roots of this plant, used as a purgative and emetic

[from Portuguese, from Tupi ipekaaguéne, from ipeh low + kaa leaves + guéne vomit]

Translations

ipecacuanha [ˌɪpɪkækjʊˈænə] N → ipecacuana f