Aconitine, or Aconitia

(Chem.) A powerful vegetable alkaloid, prepared from the root of the Aconi tum napellus, (aconite.) It is one of the most virulent of poisons, but, at the same time, a very valuable medicine. Externally applied, it produces on the skin a prickling sensation, which is followed by a peculiar numbne . An ointment containing aconitine is often used in cases of neuralgia, acute rheumatism, and diseases of the heart. The homœopathic physicians make a great use of it in fevers. Its narcotic action is so active that a fiftieth of a grain may endanger the life of an adult. The most effectual antidote in case of poisoning is warm water, administered till it produces vomiting, after which stimulant remedies should be applied internally and externally. The alkaloid consists of the elements carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen; its formula being CHAN12