Aconite
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
The aconite plant grows in rocky areas. It is often found in the mountainous woodlands of many parts of Europe, especially France, Austria, Germany and Denmark. Aconite has been used for neuralgia, sciatica and rheumatism. Aconite is also an ingredient in homeopathic preparations. It is often in homeopathy to treat cold and flu symptoms. Aconite is highly toxic and is not safe to eat.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Heart failure C
Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) C
Pain after surgery (in infants) C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Aconite is highly toxic and is not safe for human consumption. Avoid with heart disease, heart dysfunction, irregular heartbeat, hemodynamic instability (abnormal blood flow), gastrointestinal disorders, ulcers, reflux esophagitis, ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis. Use caution with diabetes, suicidal tendencies. Avoid if younger than 18 years old. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:
Agitation, arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), blurred vision, convulsions, coma, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, dimness of vision, dizziness, heart problems (like ventricular tachyarrhythmias including ventricular ectopy, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation), heart dysfunctions, hypothermia, increased salivation, increased white blood cells, kidney damage, low blood pressure, low blood sugar levels, low potassium level (hypokalemia), muscle cramps, nausea, numbness of the face/ throat/limbs, stiff muscles, throat constriction, vomiting.

Possible interactions:
Drugs that affect the rate the heart beats (antiarrhythmics), drugs that lower blood pressure, anesthetics, digoxin, drugs that increase urine (diuretics), and herbs or supplements with similar effects (like foxglove and Siberian ginseng).

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
1-5 drops of a leaf tincture has been used four times a day to relieve pain.
Aconite preparations of 6c-30c have been used.
Aconite should not be applied to the skin. Aconite is sometimes used in liniments (similar to a lotion) with belladonna. Historically, a 1.3% aconitine liniment has been applied to the skin.

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.