Wolfsbane vs. Monkshood — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 7, 2024
Wolfsbane and Monkshood are both names for Aconitum, a toxic plant, but Wolfsbane is often associated with its use in folklore to repel werewolves.
Difference Between Wolfsbane and Monkshood
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Wolfsbane is a common name for the genus Aconitum, a group of plants known for their toxicity and historical use in potions and poisons. Whereas Monkshood, another name for the same plant, is derived from the flower's resemblance to a monk's cowl.
The name "Wolfsbane" is steeped in folklore, often associated with warding off werewolves or being used in poisons against wolves. On the other hand, "Monkshood" emphasizes the plant's physical appearance and its place in natural history, without the mystical connotations.
Both names refer to the same plant but evoke different cultural and historical associations. Wolfsbane's name highlights its deadly nature and mythical uses, whereas Monkshood's name calls attention to the flower's shape and its less ominous aspects.
In gardening and botanical contexts, the choice between "Wolfsbane" and "Monkshood" can reflect the speaker's focus—whether on the plant's lore and toxicity (Wolfsbane) or on its aesthetic and horticultural qualities (Monkshood).
Despite their different connotations, both names serve as a reminder of the plant's potent alkaloids, which can be deadly to humans and animals alike. This dual nature—beautiful yet dangerous—underscores the importance of knowledge and caution in dealing with Aconitum species.
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Comparison Chart
Name Origin
Associated with folklore and its use against wolves
Derived from the flower's resemblance to a monk's cowl
Cultural Connotations
Often linked to myths, werewolves, and poison
Less about myths, more focused on appearance and botany
Usage in History
Used in potions and as a poison
Known for its medicinal and toxic properties
Appearance
Describes the plant broadly
Highlights the specific shape of the flowers
Perception
Emphasizes danger and mystique
More neutral, emphasizing botanical aspects
Compare with Definitions
Wolfsbane
Connected to myths, especially around werewolves.
Wolfsbane was believed to protect against werewolves.
Monkshood
More grounded in natural history than myth.
Monkshood's lore is more botanical than mystical.
Wolfsbane
Carries a sense of mystery and danger.
Wolfsbane features in many tales as a powerful poison.
Monkshood
Emphasizes the plant's aesthetic qualities.
Monkshood is prized in gardens for its deep blue flowers.
Wolfsbane
Despite its danger, it is a plant of great interest.
Gardeners grow Wolfsbane for its striking blooms, with caution.
Monkshood
Known for its beauty, but handled with care.
Gardeners wear gloves when planting Monkshood to avoid poisoning.
Wolfsbane
Reflects its use in folklore and ancient practices.
The name Wolfsbane comes from its supposed ability to repel wolves.
Monkshood
Named for its flowers' similarity to a monk's cowl.
Monkshood's distinctive flowers contribute to its name.
Wolfsbane
Recognized for its potent poison.
Historically, Wolfsbane was used to eliminate predators.
Monkshood
Has a history of medicinal application despite its toxicity.
In small doses, Monkshood was historically used for pain relief.
Wolfsbane
A poisonous aconite (Aconitum lycoctonum) of Eurasia, having racemes of usually yellowish flowers.
Monkshood
See aconite.
Wolfsbane
See aconite.
Monkshood
A poisonous aconite (Aconitum napellus) native to Europe, having racemes of blue or purple flowers.
Wolfsbane
Any of several poisonous perennial herbs of the genus Aconitum.
Monkshood
(countable) Any of various poisonous plants, of the genus Aconitum, with blue or white flowers in the shape of a hood.
Wolfsbane
A poisonous plant (Aconitum Lycoctonum), a kind of monkshood; also, by extension, any plant or species of the genus Aconitum. See Aconite.
Monkshood
(uncountable) The dried leaves or flowers of these plants formerly used as a source of medicinal alkaloids.
Wolfsbane
Poisonous Eurasian perennial herb with broad rounded leaves and yellow flowers and fibrous rootstock
Monkshood
A plant of the genus Aconitum; aconite. See Aconite.
Monkshood
A poisonous herb native to northern Europe having hooded blue-purple flowers; the dried leaves and roots yield aconite
Common Curiosities
Are Wolfsbane and Monkshood the same plant?
Yes, they are different names for the plant genus Aconitum.
Can Wolfsbane really protect against werewolves?
This is a myth; Wolfsbane has no proven effect on werewolves.
Is Monkshood safe to grow in a garden?
It can be grown safely with caution due to its toxic nature.
Why are there two names for the same plant?
The names reflect different aspects: Wolfsbane for its folklore and toxicity, Monkshood for its flower's shape.
Why is the plant called Monkshood?
The name comes from the hood-like shape of its flowers, resembling a monk's cowl.
What should I do if I come into contact with Wolfsbane?
Seek medical advice immediately, as the plant is highly toxic.
Has Monkshood been used in medicine?
Historically, yes, but its use is risky due to its high toxicity.
How can I safely handle Monkshood in my garden?
Wear gloves and avoid ingestion or skin contact with the plant.
Can both Wolfsbane and Monkshood be used for the same purposes?
Yes, but their applications are limited by their toxicity.
What is the difference in use between Wolfsbane and Monkshood?
Both terms can be used, but "Wolfsbane" often connotes the plant's use in folklore, whereas "Monkshood" refers to its botanical and aesthetic aspects.
Can Wolfsbane and Monkshood be used in cooking?
No, their toxicity makes them highly dangerous and unsuitable for consumption.
Why is the plant highly toxic?
It contains alkaloids like aconitine, which are highly poisonous.
Are there different varieties of Wolfsbane and Monkshood?
Yes, there are many species within the Aconitum genus.
How does the cultural perception of Wolfsbane differ from Monkshood?
Wolfsbane is often associated with darker, mystical themes, while Monkshood is viewed more for its botanical interest.
What are the historical uses of Monkshood?
It was used in traditional medicine and as a poison.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
