M
Contraindications, Interactions, and Side Effects (Monkshood) — Not covered (AHP;
KOM). Commission E reports the herb and tuber are not permitted for therapeutic use.
Usefulness is not documented adequately for most advocated uses (AEH). Use of the drug is
risky and not recommended (PH2). Extremely toxic; can cause irregular heart beats, heart
attack, and even death. Dangerous, even topically. To be avoided, especially by pregnant or
nursing women. On Commission E list of unapproved herbs. “This means that it is not
recommended for use because it has not been proven to be safe or effective” (ACS). Contains
the toxic alkaloid aconitine (AEH). Aconitine first excites, then paralyzes peripheral nerve
endings and the brain stem. It slows respiration and extinguishes atrial impulses within the A-
V node. It parallels other neurotoxins (batrachotoxin, grayanotoxin), which act on the sodium
channels and hinder repolarization. Between 1980 and 1984, there were 25 reported aconite
murders in Sichuan China alone.MOONSEED (Menispermum canadense L.) +Activities (Moonseed) — Alterative (f; CRC); Cyanogenic (f; CRC); Diaphoretic (f; CRC); Diuretic
(f; CRC); Laxative (f; CRC; DEM); Nervine (f; CRC; EFS); Poison (f; CRC); Stomachic (f; CRC);
Tonic (f; CRC; EFS).Indications (Moonseed) — Cancer (f; CRC); Constipation (f; CRC; DEM); Debility (f; CRC);
Dermatosis (f; CRC; DEM); Enterosis (f; DEM); Fever (f; CRC); Gastrosis (f; DEM); Gout (f;
CRC); Scrofula (f; CRC); Sore (f; DEM); Syphilis (f; CRC); VD (f; CRC; DEM); Water Retention
(f; CRC).Dosages (Moonseed) — Not covered (AHP; KOM; PHR).