What are the effects and side effects of Strychnos nux-vomica?

Maqianzi (Strychnos nux-vomica) has various effects including promoting circulation and relieving pain, dispersing nodules and reducing swelling, strengthening tendons and bones, activating blood circulation to resolve stasis, detoxifying and treating sores. Its side effects include neurotoxicity, gastrointestinal discomfort, cardiovascular abnormalities, musculoskeletal reactions, and allergic reactions. Due to its high toxicity, strict control is required, and it should only be used under medical supervision. In case of accidental contact or ingestion leading to adverse symptoms, immediate medical attention is recommended.

I. Therapeutic Effects of Maqianzi

1. Promotes Circulation and Relieves Pain: Effectively treats rheumatic arthralgia, limb numbness, and muscle or tendon contractures. By unblocking meridians and interrupting pain transmission, it alleviates chronic and stubborn pain, especially suitable for joint pain caused by rheumatism and post-traumatic injuries.

2. Disperses Nodules and Reduces Swelling: Helps dissolve hard lumps associated with abscesses, carbuncles, scrofula, and phlegm nodules. When applied externally, it promotes resolution of local inflammation and reduces swelling. It should be used in combination with other medications to enhance therapeutic efficacy.

3. Strengthens Tendons and Bones: Improves weakness in tendons and bones, such as soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees. It aids in enhancing limb strength and is suitable for conditions involving long-term musculoskeletal strain or chronic bi syndrome causing limb weakness.

4. Activates Blood and Resolves Stasis: Promotes blood circulation and removes blood stasis, thereby relieving pain and swelling caused by internal stagnation of blood. Commonly used as an adjunct treatment for traumatic bruising and swelling.

5. Detoxifies and Treats Sores: When applied topically, it has detoxifying and astringent effects on skin ulcers and open sores, helping reduce pus secretion and promote wound healing. Dosage and application area must be strictly controlled.

II. Side Effects of Maqianzi

1. Neurotoxicity: Overdose can easily cause dizziness, headache, restlessness, and in severe cases, muscle twitching, trismus (lockjaw), opisthotonus, and even respiratory muscle paralysis that may be life-threatening. The toxic component, strychnine, is extremely potent.

2. Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Irritates the gastrointestinal mucosa, leading to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Some individuals may experience loss of appetite, dry mouth, and throat dryness, often related to excessive dosage or individual sensitivity.

3. Cardiovascular Abnormalities: May induce palpitations, anxiety, elevated blood pressure, and in severe cases, arrhythmias or myocardial damage. Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular diseases are at higher risk.

4. Musculoskeletal Reactions: Excessive use can lead to muscle stiffness, spasms, and tremors, spreading from localized areas to the entire body, affecting limb movement and respiratory function.

5. Allergic Reactions: A small number of people may develop itching, rashes, or erythema after contact or use. Severe cases may present with laryngeal edema, difficulty breathing, or even anaphylactic shock.

Maqianzi must be processed properly under the guidance of a qualified physician and used strictly according to dosage guidelines—self-medication should be avoided. It should be stored in a sealed, moisture-proof container, kept out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental exposure or ingestion.