Indian Nettle (Kuppi, Mercury Weed, Indian Acalypha, Hierbade Cancer)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Acalypha indica, A. virginica
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Leaves
Chemicals this herb contains:
Acalyphine
Cyanogenic glycoside (See Glossary)
Inositol methylether
Resin (See Glossary)
Triacetomamine
Volatile oils (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Irritates stomach lining. Decreases thickness and increases fluidity of mucus from lungs and bronchial tubes. Causes vomiting.

Miscellaneous information:
Basic ingredients are similar to ipecac.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Stimulates bowel movements. Is used as a poultice. (See Glossary) Is used as a mouthwash.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Breast-feeding:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy, take it for only a short time and do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dosage.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated relatively safe when taken in appropriate quantities for
short periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS