Found: Native to East Asia and China, now grows wild in some parts of England.
"There hath beene little heretofore set down concerning the virtues of the Aconite, but much might be saide of the hurts that have come thereby."
- Gerard
History: Aconite gets its name from the Greek legendary hill of Aconitis where it supposedly flourished and where Hercules battled Cerberus, the three-headed dog that fiercely guarded the gates to Hades. According to legend, the enraged dog foamed at the mouth, spewing its venom on the plants and giving them poisonous properties.
Uses: This herb is widely in China where the root is commonly used in preparations to treat diarrhea, severe respiratory infections and shock. The root is reputed to be anesthetic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and sometimes used as a stimulant and vasodilator. When used externally, it causes a tingling sensation.
Caution: This herb is quite toxic when taken internally and should only be administered by a qualified health care practitioner. Contact dermatitis is also possible. Toxic dosages may lead to numbness of the extremities, tongue and lips and may also induce vomiting or coma.