Aconite, also called wolf’s bane, has historically been associated with magical healing powers. While some proponents say it has medicinal value, it also contains highly toxic compounds.
Aconite is a plant that’s native to many areas of Europe and Asia. Its stalks are loaded with purple flowers, so it’s an appealing perennial plant for ornamental gardens.
Although there are many varieties of the plant, all of them are thought to be toxic. Therefore, it’s a good idea to be careful if you decide to use it.
Read on to learn more about aconite.
Aconite has long been associated with magic and witchcraft. However, it also has a long history as a poison. It’s rumored that the Roman emperor Claudius was murdered with aconite.
As recently as 2010, a British woman was convicted of poisoning someone with a spicy aconite curry.
Eating too much of it can cause serious problems with your cardiovascular and nervous systems, and it can be fatal.
Despite its toxic properties, aconite
Medicinal
Aconite can still be purchased at many health food stores as a homeopathic remedy. You can also find it at certain pharmacies.
Some people believe it can help treat a wide variety of conditions, from colds to heart disease. However, there’s no evidence supporting these claims. It can also cause serious health risks.
Many aconite products provide dosage instructions for adults and children. In fact, at least one product is marketed specifically for children. It’s marketed as a “kiddie calmer” to help relieve shyness, nervousness, and worry.
Homeopathic
As with many homeopathic products, claims about the healing power of aconite include a wide range of conditions.
For example, some people believe it can help clear up conditions like colds, fevers, or headaches. Others use it to treat other conditions from asthma to rheumatism, and some think it can help reduce inflammation.
However, there is limited research on aconite, and most existing studies are in vivo or performed on animals. Because there’s little evidence that it actually provides health benefits, it’s a good idea to speak with a doctor before trying aconite.
It’s important to be aware of the toxicity and potential risks of aconite.
Aconite contains potent alkaloids
Aconite’s potential health benefits may be due to the alkaloids it contains. Alkaloids are potent compounds, mostly produced by plants.
The main alkaloid found in aconite is called aconitine. Other examples of alkaloids include caffeine, strychnine, and nicotine.
Many alkaloids do have medicinal properties. For example, some of them are used to treat or prevent migraines, muscle spasms, asthma, or motion sickness.
Some may also help ward off glaucoma, malaria, bronchitis, or even Alzheimer’s disease. On the other hand, alkaloids can also be very toxic. It’s important to not consume too much in order to avoid toxicity.
Aconite is highly toxic
Aconitine and other alkaloids found in aconite are highly toxic. Similar toxins are also found in arsenic, lead, ammonia, and the bacteria responsible for tetanus and botulism.
These alkaloids are classified as cardiotoxins and neurotoxins. They affect the cardiovascular and central nervous systems and can interfere with essential communication between cells.
Soaking and boiling aconite helps to reduce its toxicity. However, if you consume too much or use products that haven’t been processed properly, you can get aconite poisoning. You can also absorb dangerous amounts of aconite through your skin or open wounds.
If you try aconite, it’s important to be aware of the possible signs of poisoning.
Symptoms
Aconite poisoning is life threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
- upset stomach
- gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms
- seizures
- sensory issues
- abnormal or irregular heartbeat
You may have difficulty breathing and an irregular heartbeat. Some people also report a “creepy” sensation that feels like ants crawling over your body.
Treatment
There are no known antidotes to aconite poisoning, but doctors can treat the symptoms.
If you have aconite poisoning, you should seek immediate medical attention for monitoring. Your doctor should pay close attention to your blood pressure and cardiac rhythm. They may use medications to treat symptoms like low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, or abnormal heart rhythms.
Never use aconite unless you’ve spoken with a doctor first. Aconite poisoning can be fatal. In most cases, you’re probably better off trying another treatment.
Aconite has been used in traditional medicine as a remedy for many ailments. However, the plant contains toxic compounds.
If you decide to use aconite, it’s a good idea to speak with a doctor before trying it.