This painting was done by freehand from start to finish; sketch to signature. The botanical name (Aconitum napellus) and several common names are listed at the bottom of the painting. The painting depicts the green leaves and purple-ish blue flowers on a light green background. All paintings are one of a kind; no prints are available. Sorry for any inconvenience. This painting is 8x5.5 inches (20.25x14 centimeters).
Well known as wolfsbane, monkshood and aconite, this plant is related to buttercups and is deadly poisonous with no antidote. While often depicted with the flowers, this plant is actually classified as a perennial herb. The medical benefits aren't disputed. Aconite is often used as a medication to treat painful, cardiac, and anxiety disorders. In correct doses, aconite can slow the heart rate and numb various areas when applied topically. It also has been used to treat fever and pneumonia with its ability to lower the body's temperature. Medications are derived from the root and are prescribed by doctors. It is easy to overdose with these medications.
The poison is called aconitine, and has been well known since ancient times. Ancient Romans had to outlaw the growth of this plant due to murders and deaths attributed to this plant. In medieval times, villages would poison their water source during an invasion before fleeing to safety to prevent the soldiers from following them.
Wolfsbane, as the name suggests, was believed to protect anyone who wore the plant from wolf attacks. People also used to plant it around their homes to keep the werewolves away.