Source:

• Botanical name: Aconitum napellus
• Common name: Monkshood, Wolfsbane
• Family: Ranunculaceae
• Source: Derived from the whole plant of Aconitum napellus, primarily its root, which is highly toxic.

General Information:

Aconite is one of the most well-known homeopathic remedies, particularly used for its action on acute, sudden conditions, especially those involving fear, shock, or exposure to cold. It acts on the nervous system and is used in cases that are associated with fear and restlessness. Historically, it was used as a poison, hence the need for extreme care when using it in crude forms.

Characteristic Symptoms:

• Mental Symptoms: Intense fear, anxiety, and restlessness, often with a sense of impending death. Patients may predict the time of their death.
• Physical Symptoms:
• Sudden onset of high fever, often following exposure to dry cold air.
• Skin is hot, dry, and red.
• Throbbing headaches with a flushed face.
• Tingling, numbness, and burning sensation in parts of the body.
• Cold extremities despite feeling feverish, and sensitivity to cold drafts.
• Rapid pulse with a bounding heartbeat.

Uses:

• Fever: Sudden onset of high fever, particularly following cold exposure, with dry skin, restlessness, and thirst.
• Acute Inflammatory Conditions: First stages of colds, flu, sore throat, croup, bronchitis, and pneumonia, especially when there is an accompanying fear or anxiety.
• Shock and Trauma: Both mental and physical, such as from accidents, fright, or panic attacks.
• Cardiac Issues: Acute conditions such as palpitations, rapid pulse, and anxiety related to heart health.
• Neuralgias: Sudden, sharp, shooting pains that are worse from exposure to cold wind.
• Colds: For colds that come on suddenly, with symptoms like a stuffy nose, sneezing, and a dry cough.

In homeopathy, Aconite is often used in acute situations but is generally recommended for short-term use and lower potencies unless under professional guidance due to its toxic nature.