Prepared Aconite Root Slices … Safety & Interactions
Zhi Fu Zi · Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata
Contraindicated / High risk. Use only under practitioner supervision.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Heat patterns, Yin deficiency with heat, or clear internal heat without cold
- Raw or inadequately processed aconite for internal use
- Unsupervised use in frail patients, children, or anyone with major arrhythmia risk
Cautions
- Zhi Fu Zi is processed but still toxic and generally needs pre-decoction, authenticated sourcing, and formula-based supervision.
- Toxicity can begin with mouth numbness, tingling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and hypotension before progressing to dangerous arrhythmias.
- Traditional incompatibility cautions remain for Ban Xia, the Gua Lou group, Tian Hua Fen, Bai Ji, Bai Lian, and the Bei Mu group.
Drug Interactions
| Drug Class / Substrate | Mechanism | Severity | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiac glycosides such as digoxin ... additive arrhythmogenic risk | |||
| Class I and III antiarrhythmic drugs ... unpredictable electrophysiologic interaction | |||
| Beta-blockers or other rate-slowing agents ... may worsen bradycardia or mask early toxicity | |||
| QT-prolonging medications ... additive risk of malignant ventricular arrhythmia | |||
Pregnancy
Not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified practitioner before any use.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal medicines, especially if you take prescription medications.