ACONITE

Aconite, a brownish-orange drug derived from the root of monkshood, once used medically to slow the heart action, reduce temperature, and ameliorate pain. If taken inadvertently, it acts as a poison, causing a tingling sensation in the mouth, a burning pain in the stomach, weakened pulse, slower breathing rate, and a cold wet skin. First-aid treatment for aconite poisoning is to make the person vomit by giving him a tablespoon of mustard in a glass, of water. He should be put in bed, kept warm, and massaged. He should be encouraged to drink plenty of hot coffee. A doctor should be called immediately.