Spotlight on... Aconite

Aconite is the number 1 remedy for shock, fear and panic attacks. The onset will be sudden and intense and symptoms may include restlessness, trembling and impatience. The person needing Aconite may be inconsolable and distressed, with a sense of foreboding and a frightened expression. The mouth may be dry and the heartbeat fast - even with palpitations.

Aconite is also the number 1 remedy for nipping colds in the bud. It is very useful at the beginning of an illness - in the first 24-48 hours - where symptoms are often the result of fright, shock or anger. Exposure to a draught or to a cold, dry wind can also cause a wide range of symptoms, such as colds, coughs, sore throats, earaches, fevers and cystitis, so Aconite could be a good choice of remedy here.

People needing Aconite are usually worse at night - around midnight especially - and are better from fresh air. They will not want to be touched, examined or interfered with and they may say everything tastes bitter. They are very thirsty for cold drinks and may have dry, hot skin.

Think shock, fear, panic attack, extreme restlessness, fever, thirst, complaints come on suddenly, worse at night.

Aconite is less useful if the person is calm, or the complaint has moved beyond the initial stage.