Aconitum napellus – Homeopathic remedy to take at the beginning of an illness

Aconite, commonly known as ‘monk’s hood’, is a tall, very poisonous plant which has attractive, hood shaped, blue flowers. It belongs to the family Ranunculacee, and grows in shady, mountainous areas across most of northern and central Europe. 

The homeopathic remedy is made at the start of flowering from the whole plant, including its highly toxic root. It is believed that local people used to dip the tips of their arrows in a preparation of Aconite when hunting wolves, hence the plant’s other name, wolf’s bane.

Consider Aconite as a remedy to take for the early stages of any illness, especially if the symptoms come on suddenly, or the patient has recently become chilled as a result of being exposed to cold, dry winds. 

The symptoms can include aches, pains, colds, coughs, sore throats, flu, chills and fever. 

An example of the rapid onset of symptoms could be that your child is playing quite happily one moment, and then suddenly becomes fractious and feverish just a few moments later. 

Great anxiety and restlessness often accompany a typical Aconite fever. The patient may feel very hot internally, but chilly externally, with dry skin except for covered areas, which become sweaty. They can also be extremely thirsty and drink large quantities of water, often observing that everything tastes bitter, except for water, which just tastes odd. 

The typical Aconite cold comes on suddenly, and is characterised by sneezing, a hoarse croupy cough, and a throat which is painful, red and swollen.

Aconite is especially helpful for people suffering from symptoms associated with sudden shock, fear, or fright. 

So if, for example you suddenly experience a painful, burning, bursting headache following a shock or trauma, Aconite may well be the indicated remedy for your condition. 

The Aconite ‘fear’ expression is characterised by a staring, startled, glassy eyed look (‘rabbit in the headlights’ syndrome), and the patient is in obvious distress. The 30C potency can be taken every half hour for up to four doses, then reduce as symptoms improve.

Our thanks to Pauline Start for helping to compile this article. See Pauline’s web site for more information: www.healthandhomeopathy.com