[Illustration: Monkshood, aconite, friar’s cap, Wolfsbane
_Aconitum napellus--RANUNCULACEAE_]
=Description=: There are numerous garden varieties of the monkshood
and it is widely cultivated. It is a perennial herb reaching a height
of about 3 to 4 feet with many divided leaves (like a crow’s foot).
Several violet-blue flowers form on a flowering stalk somewhat like the
delphinium or larkspur, but they are more frequently branched. Each
flower resembles the cap or hood of a medieval monk, hence its common
name. The seeds are tiny and form in dry capsules called follicles.
=Poisonous Parts=: Roots and seeds are most poisonous although the
leaves may be harmful if eaten. The plant contains several poisonous
alkaloids, chiefly =aconitine=, which affects the vital vagus nerve
from the brain causing a slowing of the heart. Other effects of
poisoning include tingling and numbing sensations of the lips and
tongue, irregular pulse, dimness of vision, and respiratory failure.
=Antidote=: Call your doctor. The victim should be kept warm, because
of the possibility of circulatory collapse, and placed in a horizontal
position with the feet level with the head. Physicians treat for
=aconitine= alkaloid poisoning. Gastric lavage is preferred to the use
of vomiting agents. Circulatory stimulants may be necessary.