ip·e·cac  ( ĭp ĭ-k ăk ′) also ip·e·cac·u·an·ha ( ĭp ′ĭ-k ăk ′y - ăn ə)
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n.1. a. A low-growing tropical American shrub (Psychotria ipecacuanha syn. 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.
[Short for Portuguese ipecacuanha, from Tupí ipekaaguéne : ipeh, low + kaâ, leaves + guéne, vomit.] |
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