How Do You Spell IPECACUANHA?

Pronunciation: [ˌa͡ɪpkɐkjuːˈanhə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Ipecacuanha" can be confusing for many people. It is a medicinal plant used as an emetic or to induce vomiting. The pronunciation of the word is [ˌɪpəˌkækjuːˈænə], with stress on the second syllable. The peculiar spelling of this word is due to its origins in Brazil, where the Tupi-Guarani language was spoken. The Portuguese spelling, ipecacuanha, was used to refer to the plant, and it was later transliterated into English with its current spelling.

IPECACUANHA Meaning and Definition

1. Ipecacuanha, pronounced as "i-pe-ka-kwan-ah," refers to a plant species named Psychotria ipecacuanha, which belongs to the Rubiaceae family. This perennial herbaceous plant is indigenous to a few countries in South America, such as Brazil and Colombia. It is particularly known for its medicinal properties, often used as an expectorant and emetic.

   The term "ipecacuanha" also refers to the medicinal substance derived from the ipecacuanha plant's roots. This substance has a long history of use as a treatment for various ailments, mainly in the form of a syrup or powder. It is widely recognized for its ability to induce vomiting in cases of poisoning or overdose. Ipecacuanha is known to stimulate the chemoreceptor trigger zone in the brain, resulting in the expulsion of harmful substances from the digestive system.

   Moreover, ipecacuanha is also utilized as an expectorant, helping to alleviate respiratory conditions like bronchitis and asthma. It works by loosening mucus and promoting coughing. However, its use as an expectorant has declined in recent years due to the development of more effective treatments.

   It is important to note that the administration of ipecacuanha should only be undertaken under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as improper and excessive use can lead to unwanted side effects, including severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and damage to the digestive tract.

2. The root of a S. Amer. plant, used in medicine as an emetic.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for IPECACUANHA

• upecacuanha
• jpecacuanha
• kpecacuanha
• opecacuanha
• 9pecacuanha
• 8pecacuanha
• ioecacuanha
• ilecacuanha
• i-ecacuanha
• i0ecacuanha
• ipwcacuanha
• ipscacuanha
• ipdcacuanha
• iprcacuanha
• ip4cacuanha
• ip3cacuanha
• ipexacuanha
• ipevacuanha
• ipefacuanha
• ipecacuanua

Etymology of IPECACUANHA

The word Ipecacuanha comes from the Tupi-Guarani language, which was spoken by the indigenous people in Brazil. It is derived from the words i-pe-kaa-gwã, which means the path of the vomit.

Plural form of IPECACUANHA is IPECACUANHAS