vs
Aconite vs Arnica
(Aconitum napellus · Arnica montana)
Both are first-aid remedies for accidents and shocks, and many home kits keep them side by side.
In short
Arnica is for the bruised, injured body; Aconite is for the fright and panic around it.
Side by side
(the classic distinctions homeopaths look for)
| Feature | Aconite |
Arnica |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Emotional shock: fear, panic | Physical trauma: bruising, soreness |
| Mood | Terrified, restless, may fear dying | Says they're fine; doesn't want help |
| Touch | Restless and agitated | Fears being touched because it hurts |
| Typical situation | A near miss, a scare, sudden cold | A fall, blow or overexertion |
| Timing | The first minutes and hours | Through the days of healing |
Aconite
Better
Open air, Rest
Worse
Night, especially around midnight, Warm, stuffy rooms, Cold, dry wind, Fright or shock
Arnica
Better
Lying down, especially with the head low
Worse
The slightest touch, Movement, Damp cold
From the classic texts
“A state of fear, anxiety; anguish of mind and body. Physical and mental restlessness, fright, is the most characteristic manifestation of Aconite.”
“Produces conditions upon the system quite similar to those resulting from injuries, falls, blows, contusions.”
Read the full profiles
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Aconite
(Aconitum napellus · Monkshood)
The remedy of sudden onset. In the materia medica, Aconite is associated with complaints that arrive fast and intensely, often after a fright, a shock or exposure to cold, dry wind, and come with marked fear and restlessness.
Read more -
Arnica
(Arnica montana · Leopard's bane)
Probably the best-known homeopathic remedy. Arnica is associated with the bruised, sore aftermath of falls, blows, overexertion and physical shock, in people who often insist they're fine.
Read more
Articles that discuss both
The Essential Homeopathic Duo: Arnica for Bruises and Aconite for Sudden Shocks
Homeopathic Support During Pregnancy: What’s Safe and When
Homeopathic Remedies for Motion Sickness, Jet Lag and Travel Stress
Free printable guide
12 remedies to keep at home
When to think of each one, how to tell them apart, when to call a doctor instead and a printable home remedy guide.
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This page is for education only and is not medical advice. Homeopathy is complementary care, not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a licensed medical provider. Seek medical care for severe, worsening or emergency symptoms. Please view our Disclaimer.