Snow Mountain Aconite has high medicinal value, but its main component is aconitine, which is highly toxic when taken in excess. Therefore, it is not advisable to consume it in large quantities. However, it is very effective in treating bruises and injuries when used topically. Let's learn more about Snow Mountain Aconite.
【Preparation Method】
Soak in water for 7 days, changing the water twice daily. Slice it when it becomes soft and translucent in the center. Steam it in a steamer for 2-3 hours, then remove and air dry. Stir-fry it thoroughly with hot lard, or wrap it in damp paper and simmer it by the charcoal fire until it is fully cooked. Remove the paper, soak it in cold water for one day and night, then remove and rinse it before air drying.
【Habitat Distribution】
It is mainly distributed in the northeastern and northwestern parts of Yunnan, such as Dongchuan, Huize, Xuanwei, Zhaotong, Qiaojia, Ninglang, Yongsheng, Dali, Lijiang, and Zhongdian counties.
It grows wild in alpine grasslands, rocky slopes, or sparse forests at altitudes of 3100-4300m. It is cultivated at altitudes of 250-3000m. It is also found in small quantities in southwestern Sichuan, western Gansu, and the Qilian Mountains in eastern Qinghai.
【Cultivation Techniques】
It commonly grows on the shady slopes of alpine grasslands at altitudes of 3000-4000m. It prefers fertile and loose black humus soil for cultivation.
Seed propagation: Sow in early May, scatter the seeds and keep the soil moist. The seedlings can be transplanted after one year.
Rhizome propagation: Cut off the upper third of the root and bury the rhizome in the soil in rows with a spacing of 21cm × 21cm in November or before snowfall, with a depth of 4-6cm.
Weeds should be removed regularly during the growth period. To promote good plant growth, organic fertilizer or wood ash can be applied once a year.
【Medicinal Value】
1. Pain relief
Snow Mountain Aconite has dispersing and warming properties, as well as strong pain-relieving effects. It is used to treat various types of pain, including rheumatism, neuralgia, toothache, bruises, postoperative pain, and cancer pain. It can be taken in powdered form, applied externally as a rubbing alcohol, or used to make injections.
2. Sores and abscesses
Snow Mountain Aconite can counteract toxins with its own toxicity, promote blood circulation, and relieve pain. It can be applied externally as a rubbing alcohol to treat sores, abscesses, venomous insect bites, snake bites, bee stings, etc.
