Herb · Asia
Indian aconite
Aconitum ferox
Traditionally attributed effects: in very small doses induces sweating, diuretic, pain-relieving, fever-reducing; for nerve pain, muscular rheumatism, gout, sore throat, colds, paralysis; highly poisonous in larger doses.
Safety notes
Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Ayurvedic materia medica: Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.
Preparation
Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Vatsanaba. Vatsanabha is one of the most poisonous plants in the world and was used as an arrow poison. In Ayurveda the tuber is used only after lengthy purification in cow's urine or milk; poisonings still occur.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
In very small doses induces sweating, diuretic, pain-relieving, fever-reducing; for nerve pain, muscular rheumatism, gout, sore throat, colds, paralysis; highly poisonous in larger doses.
Preparation and amount
Traditionally used forms: paste, liniment (partly external).
Caution: Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Salve and balmCompress, poultice and paste