9 facts about Aconite – the Queen of Poisons
It is also known as Wolfsbane, Monkshood and Devil’s Helmet.
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In ancient times its poisonous effects were put to good use by hunters who used it as an arrow and spear poison.
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Aconite is a common ingredient of Chinese medicine.
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Aconite roots are soaked and boiled prior to use in order to reduce the level of toxicity present.
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Aconite is highly toxic and fast acting when exposure occurs.
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It is rapidly absorbed systemically once exposure has occurred.
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It targets both the nervous and cardiovascular system, and also the digestive system.
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Symptoms of exposure include face numbness, low blood pressure, chest pain, palpitations, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
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There is no known antidote.
BBC News story
Curry Poisoning Woman found Guilty of Murder (February 10th 2010)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/8492936.stm
"He said that everything seemed to be going dark. He could not see anything and was losing feelings in his body," Ms Choongh said. "He was touching his tongue and could not feel anything. He was having to support himself. He said 'I think this problem is because of the food we have eaten'. "I was feeling the same. Everything was going dark. I began to feel dizzy. It was difficult to stand up. My tummy was hurting."