WOLFSBANE Meaning and
Definition
-
Wolfsbane, also known by its scientific name Aconitum, is a highly toxic perennial plant belonging to the family Ranunculaceae. This flowering plant is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia and is renowned for its deadly nature. The term "wolfsbane" is an old English word, derived from the belief that the plant was once used as a means of repelling or poisoning wolves.
Wolfsbane typically grows up to four feet in height and displays clusters of vibrant violet, blue, or yellow flowers, which add to its allure. However, beneath its captivating appearance lies a potent venom. All parts of the plant, especially the roots and leaves, contain aconitine, a deadly alkaloid. This toxic compound is not only harmful to animals but also poses significant health hazards to humans.
Due to its deadly nature, wolfsbane has a long-standing reputation for its use in various mythologies, folklore, and literary works. It has been mentioned in stories related to werewolves, witches, and dark magic. In some traditions, it has been associated with protection against evil spirits and used in rituals.
In modern times, wolfsbane has also found limited medicinal applications. Despite its toxic properties, specific preparations of the plant have been used in the field of homeopathy, mainly as a topical treatment for neuralgia and rheumatism.
It is crucial to exercise caution and avoid direct contact or ingestion of any parts of the wolfsbane plant to prevent potentially dangerous consequences.
-
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for WOLFSBANE
- qolfsbane
- aolfsbane
- solfsbane
- eolfsbane
- 3olfsbane
- 2olfsbane
- wilfsbane
- wklfsbane
- wllfsbane
- wplfsbane
- w0lfsbane
- w9lfsbane
- wokfsbane
- wopfsbane
- woofsbane
- woldsbane
- wolcsbane
- wolvsbane
- wolgsbane
Etymology of WOLFSBANE
The word "wolfsbane" has an interesting etymology. It comes from the Old English word "wulfes-baen", which translates to "wolf's bane" or "wolf killer". The term "bane" refers to something poisonous or harmful, and "wulfes" was derived from the word "wulf" meaning "wolf".
"Wolfsbane" typically refers to the plant known as aconite (Aconitum), which has a long history of being used to poison wolves, as well as other predators. It was believed that the plant's toxins were effective in repelling or killing wolves, hence the name "wolfsbane". The plant was highly valued by traditional hunters and shepherds as a means of protecting livestock.
Similar spelling words for WOLFSBANE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
