Aconitum Napellus

Aconitum napellus (monkshood)

Aconitum Napellus (Aconite) uses in homeopathy: the great remedy for sudden, violent onset of fever or illness after cold dry wind or shock, with intense fear and restlessness, its symptom picture, FAQs.

Quick answer

What is Aconitum Napellus used for in homeopathy?

Aconitum Napellus (Aconite), from monkshood, is homeopathy’s great remedy for the sudden, violent onset of acute illness — typically after exposure to cold dry wind, fright or shock — marked by intense fear, anxiety and restlessness.

Reviewed & updated: June 2026

This is general information about a homeopathic remedy, not a prescription or dosing advice. In homeopathy the correct remedy and potency are chosen for the whole individual symptom picture by a qualified homeopath — the same remedy is not right for everyone. Do not self-medicate, and consult a qualified homeopathic doctor (and your physician for serious or persistent conditions) before taking any remedy.

What Aconitum Napellus is used for

  • First stage of sudden fever or inflammation
  • Ailments from cold, dry wind
  • Effects of fright, shock or panic
  • Intense anxiety and fear (even fear of death)
  • Sudden, violent acute complaints

Characteristic symptom picture

Homeopaths look for these guiding features when considering Aconitum Napellus.

  • Sudden, violent, rapid onset
  • Great fear, anxiety and restlessness
  • After exposure to cold dry wind or a shock/fright
  • Worse around midnight; worse from fright
  • Hot, dry skin with thirst in the early stage

Potency

Aconite is commonly used in 30C and 200C; it suits the very early, acute stage — potency selection is a clinical decision for your homeopath.

The characteristic picture & modalities

Aconite's picture is one of sudden, violent onset — illness erupting within hours of exposure to cold dry wind, fright or shock. The keynote is intense fear, anxiety and restlessness, sometimes even a fear of death, alongside hot dry skin and thirst in the very first stage. Complaints tend to be worse around midnight and worse from fright. It suits the early, acute hours rather than a settled illness. This is a recognisable pattern, not a diagnosis, and it fits only some people whose state genuinely mirrors it.

Before you take Aconitum Napellus

This page is background reading, not a prescription. In homeopathy the remedy and potency are matched to the whole individual by a qualified homeopath, who weighs your specific symptoms, timing and state — not a single keynote. Please do not self-select a potency from what you read here. Aconite is linked with the very early stage of acute illness, but a high or persistent fever, significant panic, or any severe or ongoing symptom needs proper medical assessment. Use this only to understand the remedy's traditional picture, and seek professional guidance before acting.

Frequently asked questions

What is Aconite used for?

It is associated with the sudden, violent onset of fever or illness after cold dry wind or shock, with intense fear, anxiety and restlessness. It suits the very first stage; the right remedy depends on your picture.

Is Aconite good for the start of a fever or cold?

It is one of the most-considered remedies in the early hours of a sudden fever or cold, but high or persistent fever needs medical assessment.

Does it help panic or fright?

It is classically considered for the effects of sudden fright or panic; significant or ongoing anxiety also needs professional support.

Can I self-prescribe it?

No — consult a qualified homeopath for the correct remedy and potency.

Don’t self-prescribe — consult a homeopathy doctor

The right remedy and potency are chosen for your individual case. Book an online or in-clinic consultation with a qualified homeopath.

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