What are the differences between Cao Wu (Radix Aconiti) and Hei Shun Pian (Processed Sichuan Aconite Root)?

Generally, the differences between Cao Wu (Radix Aconiti) and Hei Shun Pian (Processed Radix Aconiti Lateralis) include their sources, toxicity levels, medicinal properties, therapeutic effects, and applicable populations. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Different Sources: Cao Wu comes from wild aconite plants and is used directly without processing, whereas Hei Shun Pian is a processed form of the herb Fuzi (Radix Aconiti Lateralis), and there are clear differences between the two in terms of raw materials and processing methods.

2. Toxicity Differences: Cao Wu has strong toxicity, and improper use may lead to poisoning reactions, while Hei Shun Pian's toxicity is significantly reduced after processing, making it relatively safe for internal use in body regulation.

3. Medicinal Properties: Cao Wu has a strong and rapid-acting effect, primarily used for dispelling wind and cold and relieving pain, whereas Hei Shun Pian has a warm nature but is relatively mild, making it suitable for body nourishment and regulating cold deficiency conditions.

4. Therapeutic Emphasis: Cao Wu is mainly used for rheumatic pain or severe pain, with significant analgesic effects, while Hei Shun Pian primarily warms and supplements qi and blood, nourishes the liver and kidneys, and is suitable for physical weakness, fatigue, or cold-related diseases.

5. Applicable Populations: Cao Wu is suitable for patients with rheumatism or those needing pain relief, but should be used cautiously by individuals with allergic constitutions, whereas Hei Shun Pian is more suitable for individuals with cold deficiency constitutions or those needing nourishment, although medical guidance is still required.

In addition, Cao Wu is often used externally or soaked in alcohol and rarely taken internally to avoid toxicity, while Hei Shun Pian must be decocted before internal use, and the dosage must be strictly controlled.