Chinese herbal medicine Ku Tan Zi is mainly used as roots, leaves, and seeds. It has the effect of dispersing blood stasis and reducing swelling. It can be used externally to treat injuries from falls or blows. However, Ku Tan Zi itself is highly toxic, and improper use can lead to poisoning. Let's learn about the medicinal toxicity of Ku Tan Zi!
Ku Tan Zi is highly toxic. It is listed as a poisonous plant in the Chinese Plant Database. The seeds and roots of this plant are toxic. The symptoms of poisoning in humans are similar to that of the plant Aconitum carmichaeli. Symptoms include vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, dry mucous membranes, rapid breathing, and confusion.
Mice injected with 1g/kg of extract intraperitoneally showed prostration and increased respiration. At a dose of 5g/kg, they experienced difficulty breathing, convulsions, and death. In rural areas where the plant is native, it is used to poison fish and kill insects. Its toxicity to insect larvae is equivalent to that of arsenic.
Due to the high toxicity of Ku Tan Zi, it is mainly used externally, and oral administration should be used with caution.
Symptoms of poisoning: vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, dry mucous membranes, rapid breathing, confusion, and initial stimulation of the nervous system followed by paralysis.
Rescue methods: Early consideration can be given to gastric lavage, administration of protective lubricants, and fluid supplementation for symptomatic treatment.
However, in Yunnan Simao, the roots of this plant were mashed and the juice was consumed orally in a dose of 2-3 qian to treat acute gastroenteritis, with satisfactory results. It can be tried under strict observation if conditions permit.
