Aconitum Nap

A poisonous mountain flower and a classic homoeopathic first remedy for complaints that strike suddenly after cold, dry wind, with fear and restlessness.

Aconitum napellus, monkshood or wolfsbane, is a tall perennial of the buttercup family from the mountain meadows of Europe. It bears spikes of deep violet-blue, hood-shaped flowers. Every part of the plant is highly poisonous; homoeopathy uses it only in specially prepared form.

Homoeopaths traditionally reserve it for the very start of an acute complaint. It suits illness that comes on suddenly and violently, often after exposure to cold, dry wind or a fright: a rising fever with dry heat, a first sore throat, a sudden cough. Anxiety, fear and restlessness are a strong part of its picture.

• Sudden fever
• Chill after cold wind
• Early-stage colds
• Fear and restlessness
• Sudden sore throat