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Discovery of ancient Chinese anaesthesia reveals advanced early surgical practices

The invention of modern anaesthetics in 1846 is a pivotal milestone in the history of modern medicine, yet humans have long sought to alleviate surgical…

By Samantha Johnson / June 13, 2026

The invention of modern anaesthetics in 1846 is a pivotal milestone in the history of modern medicine, yet humans have long sought to alleviate surgical pain.

Recent research has showed that in the 14th century, Ming dynasty (1368–1644) surgeons utilised a toxic plant concoction to create an anaesthetic, developed by the renowned traditional Chinese medicine surgeon Xia Quan.

This discovery provides physical evidence that supports ancient texts, making it a fascinating contribution to medical history.

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The breakthrough occurred when researchers detected aconitine on 10 surgical tools discovered in Xia’s tomb. Aconitine is a toxin derived from the poisonous plant commonly known as wolfsbane.

Aconitine is a highly toxic diterpenoid alkaloid derived from the Aconitum plant family, such as monkshood or wolfsbane, above. Photo: Shutterstock
Aconitine is a highly toxic diterpenoid alkaloid derived from the Aconitum plant family, such as monkshood or wolfsbane, above. Photo: Shutterstock

According to study author Zhao Congcang from Northwest University in Xian, located in central China’s Shaanxi province, aconitine activates sodium ion channels in nerve cell membranes. Constant stimulation leads to temporary nerve excitation followed by inhibition.

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