About Aconitum anthora L.
Aconitum anthora L., commonly called anthora, yellow monkshood, or healing wolfsbane, is a yellow-flowering plant species in the genus Aconitum of the family Ranunculaceae. Its native range is widespread, and is concentrated mostly in European mountain ranges including the Alps and the Carpathians, as well as in the northern parts of Asia. Like all species in the Aconitum genus, Aconitum anthora displays high variability, caused by genetic isolation and hybridisation. Because of this polymorphic variation, A. anthora is classified within the Aconitum vulparia group. It produces flowers from July through September. The name anthora, meaning "against thora", comes from the plant's historical reputation: its tuberous root was considered an effective antidote to poisons from 'thora', which is also called Doronicum pardalianches. This thora plant is extremely toxic to both livestock and humans, with even small doses potentially causing death. The root of Aconitum anthora contains large amounts of volatile salt and essential oil, while its foliage and stems contain diterpenoid alkaloids. The plant has been used externally to treat rheumatism and deep pain, though it can cause skin irritation. When used internally, it has been applied to treat weak pulse, vegetable poisons (from young shoots), feverish colds, pneumonia, croup, heart conditions, and cardiac arrest.
