Monkshood: Aconitum sp

Other names: Wolfsbane, Friar’s cap.

One of my favorite plants on any mountain hike is the attractive monkshood. The beautiful purple flowers with the upper petal drooping like a friar’s cap, adorn the rivers and hillsides of the region. Yet, its important to be aware of the toxicity of this plant. While it may adorn your gardens and look innocent, its one of the most deadly plants on the hillside. There are almost 100 different Aconitums worldwide.

Medicinal Uses: Because of the high toxicity of this plant, there are no effective internal uses of this plant that can be taken without medical supervision. By prescription only, it has been used to sedate the nerves and heart and to reduce fevers. A good use of the plant however is to apply it externally as a shampoo to kill lice. This practice has been used for centuries.

Food use: Don’t even think about eating this plant. Even a small taste that is quickly spit out, can cause poisoning. It’s been said that three grains of the root (the size of a rice grain), can kill a hefty adult. Usually death occurs in about 6 hours. In fact, the plant has been used for centuries to tip the end of arrows when going into battle.