Botanical Overview
Aconitum heterophyllum, belonging to the family Ranunculaceae, is a medicinal plant native to the Himalayan regions of India and Pakistan. Commonly known as Atis or Ativisha, the processed root is primarily used in herbal medicine.
Energetics
This herb exhibits cooling and drying energetics, with bitter and astringent tastes. Its action is predominantly descending, with a tonifying effect on the qi.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Digestive tonic
- Antipyretic
- Nervine tonic
Indications
Western
- Fever
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Inflammation
- Pain
Syndromes
- Digestive weakness
- Respiratory inflammation
- Chronic diarrhea
TCM
- Cold syndromes with pain
- Digestive stasis
Syndromes
- Yang deficiency
- Cold-damp accumulation
Ayurveda
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Cough
Syndromes
- Kapha and Pitta disorders
- Agni imbalance
- Ama (toxicity) accumulation
Unani
- Digestive disturbances
- Respiratory complaints
- Fever
Syndromes
- Soda (phlegm) imbalance
- Hararat (heat) regulations
Constituents & Mechanisms
The processed root contains a reduced level of toxic aconitine alkaloids along with flavonoids and phenolic compounds, contributing to its anti-inflammatory and tonic properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Processed root decoction 2-6 g/day
- Powdered root with honey 1-3 g 1-2 times daily
- Extracts standardized for aconitine alkaloids under professional guidance
Safety & Contraindications
Careful processing reduces toxicity, but caution remains essential. Avoid use during pregnancy, lactation, or in individuals with cardiac arrhythmias or severe cardiovascular diseases. Potential interactions include cardiac glycosides and CNS depressants. Usage should be supervised by a qualified practitioner.
Astrological Correspondences
Not established due to lack of reliable sourced information.
Selected References
- Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia (2015)
- Phytochemical and pharmacological evaluation of Aconitum heterophyllum, Singh et al. (2014)
- Aconitum heterophyllum in Traditional Herbal Medicine, PFAF (2018)