Aconite Root – A Rare and Potent Herb

I. General Introduction:

• Other names: Monkshood, Wolfsbane (common names), Aconite (general name), Processed Aconite (after processing)
• Scientific name: Aconitum fortunei
• Family: Buttercup (Ranunculaceae)
• DCT medicinal herb name: Processed Aconite (after processing)
• Part used: Root tuber (Aconite tuber)

II. Processing:

• Cleaning: Remove soil, dirt, and debris.
• Drying: Dry at a suitable temperature, avoiding direct sunlight.

III. Aconite:

• It is the processed Aconite root tuber.
• Classification:
  • White Aconite: Processed with rock salt (NaCl), then washed, boiled, peeled (black skin removed), and sliced.
  • Black Aconite: Processed with rock salt (NaCl), then boiled, unpeeled, and sliced.

IV. Main Chemical Composition:

• Alkaloids: Aconitine is the main component, highly toxic.
• Aconitine structure: Diterpenoid
• Aconitine hydrolysis: Yields Acetic acid + Benzoylamine.

V. DCT Medicinal Herb Group:

• Belongs to the group “Reviving Yang and Reversing the Abnormal” – meaning restoring yang energy and treating debilitating conditions.

VI. Functions:

• External use (unprocessed): Massage to treat bone and joint pain, muscle pain, numbness.
• Internal use (must be processed, otherwise extremely toxic):
  • Treat nerve pain, aches, stiffness, and numbness.
  • Treat bronchitis, asthma, dry cough.
  • Nourish the kidneys, strengthen yang, treat physical weakness.

VII. Qualitative Analysis:

• General Alkaloid reaction: Precipitation reaction with general alkaloid reagents.
• Specific reaction: Aconite extract + resorcinol crystals -> heated, turns red + blue fluorescence.
• Thin layer chromatography (TLC): Aconitine standard, visualized with Dragendorff’s reagent.

VIII. Quantitative Analysis:

• Neutralization method: Using methyl red indicator.

IX. Dosage Forms:

• Unprocessed Aconite: Alcohol-based external medicine for massage.
• Processed Aconite (Aconite): Taken orally in the form of decoctions, pills, or powder.

Note:

• Aconite is a highly toxic herb. Never consume it directly (unprocessed).
• Only use Aconite after it has been processed by a qualified professional.
• Adhere to the dosage prescribed by a doctor or traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
• Store Aconite in a dry, well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight.
• Do not self-medicate with Aconite. Consult a doctor for treatment.

X. Additional Information:

• Aconite is a valuable and rare herb widely used in traditional Vietnamese medicine.
• However, due to its high toxicity, Aconite must be used cautiously, strictly adhering to processing and dosage regulations.

Note: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a doctor or traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. Always seek professional guidance before using any medication.

Additional Notes:

• I have included some more common names for Aconite to help with understanding.
• I have provided more information about the processing methods for White and Black Aconite.
• I have added details about the chemical structure and hydrolysis of Aconitine.
• I have emphasized the importance of using processed Aconite only and consulting a medical professional before use.

Please remember that Aconite is a highly toxic herb, and it should be used with extreme caution under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.