ACONITE Meaning and
Definition
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Aconite is a noun that refers to a highly poisonous plant of the buttercup family, known as Aconitum. It is also commonly called monkshood due to the shape of its flowers resembling a monk's hooded robe. Aconite is native to Europe and North America and is primarily found in mountainous regions.
Aconite is characterized by its showy blue or purple helmet-shaped flowers and deeply divided palmate leaves. It is well-known for its extreme toxicity and has played a significant role in historical folklore and medicine. The plant contains aconitine, a potent neurotoxin that can cause severe cardiac and respiratory distress if ingested or touched. The effects of aconitine poisoning are rapid and can be fatal.
Due to its highly toxic nature, aconite has limited use in modern medicine. However, it has been historically employed in traditional Chinese medicine where it is used for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. In small, controlled doses, aconite has been used to treat conditions such as rheumatism and neuralgia.
It is important to note that aconite should never be used without medical supervision, as its toxicity can lead to serious health consequences. Handling the plant or its extracts should be done with caution and protective measures to avoid accidental exposure.
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The root of Aconitum napellus; see aconitum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The herb wolf's-bane, or monk's-hood; a deadly poison extracted from it.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ACONITE
Etymology of ACONITE
The word "aconite" has its origins in the Greek word "akóniton", which referred to a poisonous plant called "Aconitum". This Greek term is believed to have been derived from the Greek word "akónē", meaning "dart" or "spear", likely due to the shape of the plant's roots resembling the tip of a spear. Over time, this term was adopted into Latin as "aconitum", and ultimately entered the English language as "aconite" to describe both the plant and the potent toxin it contains.
Similar spelling words for ACONITE
- account,
- acned,
- acanthoid,
- accounting,
- acanthion,
- aconitum,
- acanthus,
- accountant,
- acanthoma,
- accented,
- acanthous,
- acentric,
- achondrite.
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