Aconite: Benefits, Uses & Dosage

Vatsanabha (Indian Aconite) is described as the foremost Visha (poison) used therapeutically. The root tuber of Aconitum ferox/chasmanthum is extremely toxic — containing aconitine and related alkaloids. After proper Shodhana (purification through Gomutra/cow's urine processing or Swedana/steaming), it becomes a powerful medicine. Purified Vatsanabha is used in malaria-type intermittent fevers, Sannipata Jwara (complex fevers), Vata disorders, colic pain, and indigestion. The text describes that India has about 24 species of Aconitum. A. ferox, A. deinorrhizum, A. balfourii, A. laciniatum, and A. spicatum are found in various Himalayan regions. The lethal dose is very small — death can occur from even small amounts of unpurified root. Purification reduces toxicity by converting alkaloids to less toxic forms. Dose: 1/8 to 1/4 Ratti. The detailed purification involves soaking in cow's urine for 7 days and then steaming. Verses: 156-165.

• Small doses Anodyne
• antidiabetic
• an-tiperiodic
• antiphlogistic
• antipyretic
• diaphoretic
• diuretic. Large doses poison
• sedative
• narcotic
• metabolized quickly. It is related to and acting with Vyan Vayu.

Forms: Tincture, extract from fresh leaves and flower tops; external liniment, poultice, homeo-pathic formula

• Poisonous without proper purification
• The root is not used internally with heart disease
• May cause severe headaches
• Use only with the advice of a qualified practitioner