Monkshood or wolf's bane from Köhler’s Medicinal Plants / Aconitum napellus

File-size: 5600 x 8000 Pixel. 

The digital rendition of the monkshood or wolf's bane, scientifically referred to as Aconitum napellus, is a remarkable illustration sourced from Köhlers Medicinal Plants, or Köhlers Medizinal Pflanzen in its original language. This drawing dates back to approximately 1887, making it a valuable piece of historical botanical art.

This image is versatile and can be utilized for various purposes, including printing for posters or incorporating into creative and professional projects. Its high-quality resolution and intricate details make it an excellent addition to any project requiring botanical imagery.

Aconitum napellus, commonly known as monkshood or wolf's bane, is a highly toxic herbaceous perennial plant native to western and central Europe. It grows up to 5 feet tall and bears stunning blue-purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. Despite its aesthetic appeal, Aconitum napellus contains powerful neurotoxins called aconitines in all parts of the plant, primarily concentrated in the root. These compounds can cause rapid and severe respiratory and cardiac failure if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Historically, it has been used as a poison for hunting and warfare due to its potency. And yet in modern medicine, certain derivatives of Aconitum napellus are used in small doses as pain-relieving agents and muscle relaxants. Its deadly nature makes it important that one handles this plant with caution.