Aconite
Other names for Aconite
aconite
aconitum carmichaeli
aconitum carmichaeli extract
aconitum carmichaelii root extract
aconitum carmichaeli root- prep. extract
aconitum kusnezoffii
aconitum kusnezoffii extract
aconitum kusnezoffii root extract
aconitum kusnezoffii root extract, cured
aconitum nap
aconitum napellus
atisha
chuan wu (zhi) (aconitum carmichaelii) dried prepared root liquid extract
infusion (1:6000) of aconitum columbianum
monkshood
palmate aconite
palmate aconite extract
prepared aconitum
roasted aconitum
sichuan aconite lateral root extract, cured
sichuan aconite main root extract, cured
Synopsis of Aconite
History
Aconite, also known as monkshood or wolfsbane, has a rich history of medicinal use spanning centuries, particularly in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Renowned for its potent properties, aconite was employed as a remedy for a variety of ailments. Ancient practitioners harnessed its warming qualities to alleviate pain, especially in cases of neuralgia, arthritis, and rheumatism. In Chinese medicine, processed aconite root (Fu Zi) was used to restore yang energy, increase vitality, and support heart and kidney function. It was believed to dispel cold and dampness, making it a valuable ingredient for conditions involving chills, body aches, and joint stiffness.
Historically, aconite was often combined with other herbs to enhance its therapeutic effects while mitigating its inherent toxicity. For example, it was paired with herbs like ginger (Zingiber officinale) and licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) to protect the stomach and further promote circulation and warmth. In multi-herbal formulas, aconite played a crucial role in synergistically boosting the overall efficacy, making these combinations highly regarded in treating chronic pain, cold extremities, and weakened states.
Despite its reputation for toxicity, careful processing and knowledgeable formulation have allowed aconite to make significant contributions to the field of herbal medicine. Its ability to invigorate the body, relieve pain, and restore balance has earned it a respected place in traditional systems. Today, with modern safety standards and proper guidance, aconite continues to be valued for its enduring legacy in natural health and wellness.
Traditional and scientific validation
Aconite, derived from plants of the Aconitum genus, has a long-standing history in traditional medicine, particularly in East Asia. Historically, aconite was used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for its purported analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and cardiotonic properties. Ancient texts document its use in remedies for joint pain, neuralgia, and certain heart conditions, although practitioners have always recognized the need for precise preparation to reduce toxicity.
Modern scientific validation of aconite’s benefits remains limited due to safety concerns, primarily its content of potent alkaloids such as aconitine. Nonetheless, several preclinical studies have explored its pharmacological mechanisms. Research indicates that processed aconite extracts may exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-arrhythmic effects in animal models. For example, studies published in Phytotherapy Research have demonstrated aconite's analgesic effects in models of neuropathic pain, and other laboratory investigations suggest potential anti-inflammatory pathways.
Clinical evidence in humans is less robust, often limited to small-scale studies or case reports, and more research is needed to establish both efficacy and safety. Despite these limitations, aconite continues to be included in some regulated herbal formulations, where careful processing reduces toxic components. Its role as a traditional remedy and the encouraging findings from laboratory studies support further investigation into its therapeutic potential. However, it is essential for users to rely on professionally formulated products to minimize risks, and for ongoing research to clarify its effects and applications in modern nutritional products.
Aconite is used for these health conditions
Angina (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Anxiety Disorders (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bell's Palsy (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Chills (Traditional)
Cholera (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (with fever) (Traditional)
Congestion (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Conjunctivitis (Traditional)
Cough (dry) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cough (spastic) (Traditional)
Diphtheria (Traditional)
Emotional Sensitivity (Traditional)
Epilepsy (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gout (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Heart (weakness) (Traditional)
Heart Fibrillation or Palpitations (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Hiccups (Traditional)
Hot Flashes (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Injuries (Traditional)
Neuralgia and Neuritis (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Pleurisy (Traditional)
Pneumonia (Traditional)
Shock (Traditional)
Aconite is used to support these body systems
Nerves (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
