Aconite
Aconitum
Aconitum, a genus of plants traditionally used in various Eastern and Western herbal practices, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has not been extensively documented for specific traditional uses. Scientific studies have shown promising results with Aconitum's diterpenoid alkaloids, indicating potential anti-inflammatory effects through modulation of Caspase-3 signaling and preservation of mitochondrial function. The biosynthesis pathway of these compounds has also been elucidated, identifying key enzymatic steps involving ethanolamine incorporation into the diterpenoid scaffold. Additionally, research suggests that Aconitum extracts may enhance thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue when administered before cold exposure, potentially improving survival rates under such conditions. Notably, no major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for Aconitum to date.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- LA pretreatment reduced TNF-α-induced apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells by modulating apoptosis-related signaling and preserving mitochondrial function.
- The study identified six enzymatic steps in diterpenoid alkaloid biosynthesis, including a reductase that incorporates ethanolamine into the diterpenoid scaffold.
- The study identified 12 diterpenoid alkaloid markers related to anti-inflammatory activity differences between principal roots (CHW) and lateral roots (FZ) of Aconitum carmichaelii.
- A single prophylactic administration of Shenfu Decoction (SFD) at a 1:1 ratio and 1.35 g/kg dose before cold seawater exposure significantly prolongs rat survival by enhancing thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue.
- Qishen paste improved cardiac conduction and function in heart failure mice by upregulating Cx43 in cardiac resident macrophages.
Frequently asked questions
What is Aconite?
Aconite (Aconitum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Aconite?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Aconite; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: LA pretreatment reduced TNF-α-induced apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells by modulating apoptosis-related signaling and preserving mitochondrial function.
How strong is the evidence for Aconite?
The strongest finding for Aconite carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Aconite safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Aconite in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Aconite interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Aconite in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Aconite?
Aconite is also known as: Борец, Aconit.
Is Aconite a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Bioactive Constituents and Therapeutic Mechanisms of Shenfu Decoction in a Rat Model of Seawater-Immersion-Induced Accidental Hypothermia. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Novel insights into anti-inflammatory activity-related metabolic markers and biosynthetic regulatory mechanisms between principal and lateral roots of Aconitum carmichaelii Debx. via integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Characterization of the Entry Steps in Diterpenoid Alkaloid Biosynthesis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Lappaconitine protects SH-SY5Y cells from TNF-α-induced mitochondrial apoptosis by blocking the Bax-dependent Caspase-3 signaling pathway. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Qishen Paste Improves Cardiac Conduction in Heart Failure by Regulating Cardiac Resident Macrophage Connexin43. literature abstract metadata