Arnica as a natural remedy
Arnica (Arnica montana) speeds the healing of bruises and sprains.
Arnica, a member of the sunflower family, helps increase white blood cell activity and is often used in homeopathic medicine to speed healing.
Arnica flower extracts are used externally to treat everything from edema and swelling to inflammation and insect bites. The flowers are made into various products including roll-ons, creams, gels, and lotions.
Studies are currently underway to test arnica in the treatment pain related to surgical procedures, varicose veins, ligament reconstruction, dental surgery, carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, and mastectomy.
Arnica contains many active ingredients such as powerful antioxidants, flavonoids, and essential oils. The plant has strong anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties.
Read on to learn more about arnica in home remedies.
Tips for using arnica in sports medicine
Arnica can reduce pain and swelling from bruises, sprains, strains, fractures, over-exertion, and sore muscles. All athletes should keep some arnica ointment on hand since it stimulates healing activity in soft muscle tissue - right where you need it.
Extracts of arnica are used in ointments, lotions, and creams to help speed the healing of everything from sprained ankles to black eyes.
The cream can also help relieve swelling and arthritis pain. Combine with willow for extra strength.
Arnica is suitable for short term use. Do not use daily because overuse can be toxic. Also, test arnica cream on a small area of your forearm before using on large areas of the body. It can cause rash in come cases.
Arnica for pain relief
Arnica is one of the best known herbs to use in external applications such as liniments, arthritis rubs, compresses, and poultices. Visit my post about homemade herbal products if you want to know more.
Arnica has been used for hundreds of years for rheumatism, swelling, neuralgia, burns, scalds, chilblains, sore throat, croup, and wounds.
Arnica is also used to treat animals with cracked hoofs!
Arnica in the garden
Arnica, also known as mountain arnica, is native to temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. In this video, Susanna takes us into her herb garden and explains the many benefits and medicinal uses of arnica.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8537440/
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/arnica
*Do not take arnica internally unless advised to do so by a qualified professional. Always consult with your healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy especially if you are nursing, pregnant, over 65, or taking other medications. Do not use herbs on pets and young children unless you know it is safe.
Blessings to you and yours!
Thanks so much for reading my blog. Jan.
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