Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Notebook

Aconitum coreanum

Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: Highly toxic plant in its raw state: all parts, especially the root, contain alkaloids (aconitine) that can cause severe, sometimes fatal, cardiac and nervous disorders, even at low doses. Internal use strictly discouraged without processing and supervision by a qualified professional in traditional Chinese pharmacopoeia; never use raw or untreated root. Contraindicated during pregnancy, breastfeeding, in children, and in any person with heart conditions or under medication, due to risks of interactions and cumulative toxicity. Cultivation, possession, or use of this plant may be subject to regulation depending on country; consult local regulations before any handling.

Traditional processed decoction (Paozhi) — Root (tuber)

Detoxified preparation according to ancient method

In Chinese tradition, the root undergoes a long and codified transformation process (paozhi) through repeated soaking, cooking, and drying to reduce its toxicity before any use. This step must only be performed by a trained practitioner; domestic use of raw root is absolutely prohibited. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

External liniment or ointment — Processed root

External application for painful areas

The prepared root, reduced to powder or macerated in oil, was incorporated into balms intended for application to intact skin, never on open wounds, for localized and short-term external use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

This plant can only be found through practitioners or herbalists specialized in traditional Chinese pharmacopoeia, capable of certifying its adequate processing; its cultivation in domestic gardens is discouraged due to its toxicity.

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