Aconite, the deadly drug

Historically, aconite was used in extremely small doses to relieve pain. However, this herb is a deadly poison and its use is no longer recommended. Aconite still appears in some Chinese medicines, where it is combined with other herbs to counter its toxic effect.

It was not uncommon for treatment with aconite to accidentally end in fatality. In ancient wars, aconite was used as a poison on arrowheads and to taint enemy water supplies.