Arnica - Arnica Montana

Arnica is a member of the Sunflower (Asteraceae) Plant Family.  This beautiful plant is so popular, it's being over-harvested and is on the protected plant list in many places.  What makes this herb so valuable?

The value of Arnica montana lies in its ability to help soothe and heal injuries and to help reduce inflammation and pain in chronic conditions like arthritis.  A cream, oil, or salve made with infused Arnica can be used topically on injuries (i.e. bruises or sprains) to improve circulation to the affected area which helps the body heal the injury more quickly.  An infusion in water can be used for soaking sore feet, or as a hair rinse to encourage hair growth.  A cream or salve can be used to assuage dry skin, and skin conditions like eczema and acne.     

Arnica should be used topically only as it is toxic if ingested.  (My sources all say 'do not ingest except in homeopathic remedies'.  I would caution that such remedies should be used only in the care of highly trained herbal/medical professionals.)  It should not be used by women who are pregnant.  My herbal PDR also states that Arnica should not be used on mucous membranes or if the person is taking blood-thinners.  

You can learn more about this marvelous herb in my herbal datasheets.