Aconitum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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Aconitum
[หรฆ.kษหnaษช.tษm ]
Definition
botany
Aconitum, commonly known as wolfsbane or monkshood, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae. These plants are characterized by their hood-like flowers and are often found in temperate regions. Aconitum species are notable for their toxic properties, making them both intriguing and dangerous in herbal medicine.
Synonyms
blue rocket, monkshood, wolfsbane.
Examples of usage
- The aconitum plant has beautiful purple flowers.
- Aconitum is used in traditional medicine despite its toxicity.
- Gardeners must handle aconitum with care due to its poisonous nature.
Translations
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Origin of 'Aconitum'
The word 'aconitum' is derived from the Latin term 'aconitum', which originates from the Ancient Greek word 'แผฮบฯฮฝฮนฯฮฟฮฝ' (akรณniton). This Greek term is thought to be related to the word 'akantha', meaning thistle, potentially referring to the thorny character of some plants in this genus. Aconitum has a long history of use, particularly in Europe, where its toxic properties were both feared and utilized in medicine. The earliest recorded uses of aconitum go back to classical antiquity, with references in the writings of Hippocrates and Dioscorides. It has been associated with various myths and folklore, often depicted as a hazardous plant used to poison arrows. Additionally, throughout medieval times, aconitum gained a reputation as a pestilential plant believed to be linked to witchcraft and maleficium. Its duality as both a beautiful yet deadly plant continues to fascinate botanists and herbalists alike.