Aconite ( 附子 ) ...Chinese Herb...

Latin Plant Name

Radix Aconiti Lateralis Preparata

Pinyin Mandarin Name

Fu Zi

Common English Name


Part of Plant Used

Prepared root


Hot, poisonous


Acrid, sweet

Meridians Entered

Heart, Spleen, Kidneys

Common Usages

This herb is used in formulas that stimulate the metabolism and tonify the heart muscle (TCM: "wakens the yang," produces heat, moves water).

Traditional Usages and Functions

Restores devastated Yang; warms Kidney Fire; strengthens yang; warms Kidney and Spleen; expels cold; warms and opens the channels; alleviates pain.

Common Formulas Used In

Rehmannia Eight.

Processing Required

Aconite is generally prepared to remove its toxicity.


Aconite is used in small doses since it is a strong preparation. It is rarely used alone, except topically, and is usually combined with other warming herbs.

Cautions in Use

Do not use during pregnancy. Although there are usually warnings of its toxicity, aconite's prepared forms are only mildly toxic and in formulas are considered quite safe. If you find yourselffeeling too warm while taking a formula containing aconite, just discontinue the formula or remove the aconite. Aconite should not be used where there is a Yin deficiency with heat.

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