Ipecac is a medicinal syrup derived from the root of a plant native to Brazil. It has been used for centuries as an emetic, or a substance that induces vomiting, and is still used today in some cases to treat poisoning. It is also used to treat certain types of respiratory infections. The syrup is made by boiling the root of the plant in water and then straining it. The resulting liquid is then mixed with sugar and other ingredients to make a syrup.