⚕️ Nux Vomica

Nux vomica is a medicinal tree species cultivated and managed for seeds containing potent alkaloids used under controlled medicinal systems.

---

Crop Profile and Uses

Strychnos nux-vomica is a medium-sized tree whose seeds contain the alkaloids strychnine and brucine.

Because of toxicity, medicinal use is highly regulated and dose-sensitive.

---

Morphology and Distribution

Key characters:

• Opposite leaves and fragrant flowers.
• Hard-shelled berry fruits with flattened, silky-haired seeds.
• Native to tropical South and Southeast Asia; distributed in Indian deciduous forests.

---

Climate, Propagation, and Nursery

The plant grows in tropical climates on lateritic/sandy/alluvial soils.

Propagation points:

• Mostly by seeds (fresh seed preferred).
• Germination can be improved by warm-water pre-treatment.
• Polybag nursery raising is common before field transplanting.

---

Planting and Management

• Pit planting at wider spacing (around 5 x 5 m class spacing).
• FYM application supports establishment.
• Weed-free basin maintenance improves early growth.
• Limited irrigation in early years helps survival.

---

Harvest and Postharvest

The tree is long-lived and takes many years to bear fully. Mature fruits are collected, seeds are separated, shade-dried, and stored dry for medicinal trade.

---

Summary Cheat Sheet

Topic	Exam Key Point
Scientific name	Strychnos nux-vomica
Family	Loganiaceae/Strychnaceae (older references vary)
Economic part	Seed
Major alkaloids	Strychnine, Brucine
Propagation	Seed (fresh seed preferred)
Nature of drug	Potent and toxic; controlled use

References

2 sources • [1] [2]

[1]

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

Official

[2]

ICAR-NBPGR

Official