Aconite (Aconitum Napellus)

Commonly known as Monkshood. The poisonous properties of aconite have been used to coat arrowheads for use on humans and animals.

Its medical uses was mainly restricted for the alleviation of muscular and rheumatic pain when applied externally to the affected area.

A number of alkaloids have been identified within aconite but the group which is believed responsible for its medical and poisonous activity are the Aconitines.

 Aconite is extremely poisonous and the symptoms of poisoning begin with numbness in the mouth, crawling sensations on the skin, vomiting, stomach pains, laboured breathing, irregular and weak pulse, giddiness and staggering, eventual cardiac arrest or asphyxiation. The mind remains clear :  in cases of poisoning artificial respiration and stimulants are indicated.