How can I avoid aconite – a toxin – in Aconitum supplements?

Written by Amy Malec — Medically reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Updated January 09, 2023 ⓘ

Answer:

Aconite is a highly toxic alkaloid found in Aconitum plants, particularly in the roots of these plants. Although all species of Aconitum contain aconite, the most common species in the U.S. and Europe is Aconitum napellus, which is also known as monkshood, wolfsbane, or devil's hood. Other species of Aconitum include A. lycoctonum, A. carmichaeli (also called "Chuanwu") A. carmichaeli ("caowu"), and A. kusnezoffii ("fuzi").

Symptoms of aconite poisoning can include gastrointestinal, neurological and cardiovascular effects -- including irregular heart rhythm that can lead to cardiac arrest and death.

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