Which part of the Aconitum napellus plant contains the highest concentration of aconitine?
- A Leaves
- B Root tubers ✓
- C Flowers
- D Seeds
Correct answer: B. Root tubers
Explanation
The alkaloid aconitine is concentrated mainly in the root tubers, which is why the dried tuber, known as bikh or meetha vish, is the part used for homicidal and accidental poisoning in India. Leaves and flowers contain far smaller amounts, and the plant does not carry its principal toxin in seeds. This distribution explains why tuber decoctions produce the classic rapid-onset perioral tingling and cardiac arrhythmias.
Reference: Modi's Medical Jurisprudence and Toxicology, 23rd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.