Herbs - Arnica (Arnica Montana).

What Is It?

Arnica is a flowering plant found widely in Europe and Britain. It is no longer readily available in the UK for internal use, as a herbal medicine, but it is often used in various topical applications. For internal use the homoeopathic remedy Arnica is preferred and has many important uses. The dried flowers and leaves have medicinal action, although the flowers are most often used to make herbal and homoeopathic preparations.

Action

This plant contains a variety of compounds which demonstrate soothing, anti-inflammatory, astringent and healing properties.

Uses

Historically as an external preparation Arnica has been used to treat a number of conditions including:

• Aching, stiff muscles - After exercise
• Backache, lumbago, sciatica
• Bruising
• Neuralgia
• Rheumatic joints
• Sprains
• Varicose ulcers

Other information

Arnica is normally available as a lotion or cream for external use only. Homoepoathic arnica for internal use can be used alongside topical preparations to treat anginal pain and acute heart conditions.
Medical herbalists and pharmacists may be able to supply a special tincture of arnica for internal use. This is sometimes used to treat anginal pain and acute heart conditions.

Cautions

• Arnica should not be used on broken skin, when applied topically.

• At the time of writing this article there are no well known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications from using topical herbal arnica.

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk). The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.