Homeopathy Herb -- Aconitum

Aconitum belongs to the buttercup family and is also known as monkshood, aconite, leopards bane, wolfsbane, women's bane, blue rocket or Devil's helmet. There are well over 200 different species of Aconitum.

Description : Aconitum is a hardy perennial plant. With spindle shaped fleshy roots. In its younger stage it is pale colored and ages to a dark brown. The leaves are glossy and dark green with flowers that are dark blue clusters.

Medicinal Uses : Aconitum is used as a diuretic, diaphoretic and an anodyne. Aconitum is used in liniment and tincture along with given in a hypodermic injection and used in ointments.

Poison factors : Aconitum needs to be processed to greatly reduce the toxicity of the plant. Signs of poisoning are numbing and tingling of the mouth, tongue and the sensation of having bugs crawl over the skin. Stomach pain, labored breathing, nausea and vomiting are also included. The pulse can be weak or irregular and the skin clammy and cold.

Chemical Components : Aconite is made up of the alkaloids picraconitine, aconitine, napelline and aconine. Aconite also contains itaconic acid, aconitic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, sugars, fats, resin and starches.

Important Information : Due to the high toxicity of Aconitum, Aconitum is not recommended for human consumption unless properly processed.

Interactions : Aconitum can interect with calcium channel blockers, diuretics, antihypertensives and beta blockers. It's important to tell your health care provider or herbalist if you take any medications to avoid the increase in toxicity.

This page is to be used for information only. Please contact a health professional or a certified herbalist before trying any homeopathic herbs or remedies. This information is not meant to replace or disregard your medical professionals advice.

Sources:

American Cancer Society: Aconite

Botanical: Aconite