Page 106 - Pharmacognosy-II (06-PG 303)

Roots containing terpene ester alkaloids
Aconite roots

Botanical origin: Aconite is the dried tuberous root of Aconitum napellus
family Ranunculaceae.

Constituents:
Terpene ester alkaloids (0.3- 1.2 % ) ; the most important (30 %) is aconitine ,
aconine, and other related alkaloids.
Pharmacological actions:

• Aconitine causes stimulation followed by depression of both central &
peripheral N .S .

• Aconitine causes paralysis of respiratory center and cardiac muscle.
• Aconitine has local anesthetic effect , so cause numbness & tingling

sensation on the tongue and throat which may cause difficulty in
speaking.
• Pupils alternate dilated and contract, fall in blood pressure.

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