Advances in Research on Cardiovascular Toxicity of Radix Aconiti

Radix Aconiti is the mother root of Aconitum aconitum, which has complex chemical composition and various effects, but its toxicity is also strong. Cardiotoxicity is one of the main toxicities. Aconitine is the main toxic component, its toxicological mechanisms involve strong excitation of the vagus nerve and the rapid changes of calcium concentration in cardiomyocytes, which further results in increased cell membrane permeability, organelle degeneration, DNA damage, cardiomyocyte apoptosis and eventually causes heart damage. In addition, aconitine can also damage vascular endothelial cells. Clinically, Radix Aconiti poisoning is usually treated by removal of poisons, using of antiarrhythmic drugs, and blood purification. Understanding the cardiovascular toxicity, toxicological mechanism and preventive solution of Radix Aconiti has great significance for the clinical application of Radix Aconiti.