Arnica

DEFINITION

Arnica is a herb with the botanical name of Arnica montana. It is also known as Leopard's Bane, Wolf's Bane and Mountain Tobacco, and Mountain Snuff.

DESCRIPTION

The herb occurs naturally in Europe (except for Great Britain) and is also grown commercially in northern India. The leaves form a flat rosette from the centre of which arises a flower stalk some half a metre tall bearing orange yellow flowers.

The flower heads are used to obtain the main ingredient, a volatile oil. Other ingredients include a bitter glycoside, an alkaloid and tannin. Coumarins, carbohydrates and flavonoids are also found.

INTERACTIONS

Herbal supplements can alter the effects of certain drugs, including prescription medications. Always tell your Doctor about any prescription medications, non-prescription medications, herbs or other dietary supplements you are taking.

Internal use of Arnica (at levels much higher than those used in homeopathic preparations) should be avoided by people taking anticoagulant medications such as warfarin, as Arnica can reduce the clotting ability of the blood.

MEDICAL USE

Always consult your Health Professional to advise you on dosages and any possible medical interactions.
Arnica is potentially toxic if taken internally. It is generally used externally as a lotion, or in ointment form for the relief of symptoms of sprains, wounds and bruises. Chilblains with unbroken skin and hair loss may be relieved by using Arnica.

Any pain or inflammation of the skin (providing the surface of the skin is not broken) may improve with application of Arnica.

Add the dried herb or essential oil to a relaxing foot bath to help soothe aching and swollen feet.

PROPERTIES

Anti-inflammatory, wound healer and anti-irritant.

NOTES

-Arnica is potentially toxic if taken internally unless it is taken in suitable homoeopathic dilutions.
-Repeated applications may cause severe irritation.
-Arnica should only be used on unbroken skin.
-Pregnant women should not use Arnica.
-Possible side effects include allergy, headache, stomach upset, liver failure, irregular heartbeats and muscle weakness.

DISCLAIMER: The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or naturopath before following any medical regimen to see whether it is safe and effective for you.