Arnica (arnica montana)
Arnica (Arnica Montana)
Common Names: Mountain tabacco, Mexican arnica, mountain snuff, Leopold’s bane
Family: Asteraceae
Parts used: dried flower heads, Rhizome
Constituents: flavonoid glyscosides, terpenoids, sesquiterpene lactones, coumarins, volatile oils, arnicin, a bitter compound.
Medicinal actions: improves circulation, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal activity, oxytocin activity.
Medicinal use:
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Pain relief: Arnica may have analgesic properties and may help to reduce pain caused by conditions such as bruises, sprains, and muscle soreness.
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Anti-inflammatory properties: Arnica may have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the body.
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Wound healing: Topical application of arnica may help to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation and infection.
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Cardiovascular health: Arnica may help to improve cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
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Skin health: Arnica may have a beneficial effect on the skin by reducing inflammation and promoting healing of skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
Historically, arnica has been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of health conditions, including pain relief, inflammation, and wound healing. It was also used as a culinary ingredient and as a natural dye.
External use: as an anti-inflammatory, mild analgesic, for healing muscles, bruises, burns, wounds, bug bites, arthritis and hemorrhoids. It can be used as a mild pain reliever.
Contraindications: do not use on damaged or cracked skin. Contact dermatitis can occur in sensitive patients.