vs
Aconite vs Belladonna
(Aconitum napellus · Atropa belladonna)
Both are remedies of sudden, intense onset and often appear in the first hours of an acute illness.
In short
Aconite is driven by fear and restlessness; Belladonna by heat, redness and throbbing.
Side by side
(the classic distinctions homeopaths look for)
| Feature | Aconite |
Belladonna |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Sudden, often after cold dry wind or a fright | Sudden, violent |
| Main feature | Fear, panic, restlessness | Heat, bright redness, throbbing |
| Thirst | Very thirsty for cold water | Little thirst despite the heat |
| Face | Can be red, then pale | Bright red, hot, flushed |
| Sensitivity | Worse in warm rooms, at night | Worse for light, noise, jarring and touch |
Aconite
Better
Open air, Rest
Worse
Night, especially around midnight, Warm, stuffy rooms, Cold, dry wind, Fright or shock
Belladonna
Better
Sitting semi-upright, Rest in a quiet, dark room
Worse
Touch and jarring, Noise and light, Drafts, Afternoon
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.”
“Belladonna always is associated with hot, red skin, flushed face, glaring eyes, throbbing carotids, excited mental state, hyperaesthesia of all senses…”
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 -
Belladonna
(Atropa belladonna · Deadly nightshade)
Heat, redness and throbbing. Belladonna is associated with sudden, intense acute states: a flushed hot face, dilated pupils and pain that comes and goes in waves.
Read more
Articles that discuss both
Managing Acute Pain and Fever Naturally: A Deep Dive into Belladonna and Chamomilla
The Essential Homeopathic Duo: Arnica for Bruises and Aconite for Sudden Shocks
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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.