The Medicinal Plant Arnica: Advantages And Contraindications

Arnica was already used in ancient times to relieve muscle pain and bruises. Therefore, in our article today we are going to look at the benefits of this plant, as well as its contraindications.  

Arnica is a plant from the Asteraceae family, which thrives in Central and Southern Europe, but is also found in Asia and North America. You are probably already familiar with the plant, as it is often found in ointments that relieve bruises and muscle pain. Arnica is mainly used to treat certain inflammatory diseases, but is also said to stimulate hair growth.

Do you want to learn more about the benefits and contraindications of this plant? Then read on!

The use of arnica and its benefits

As already mentioned, the use of arnica dates back to ancient times. The plant has been used to treat bruises and muscle pain for generations . Then learn more details about this medicinal plant.

1. The plant helps relieve pain

Arnica has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be attributed to various chemical compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acid. Research published in The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology confirms this.

In addition, research published in The Cochrane Library on “Topical Use of Herbs to Treat Osteoarthritis” has shown that arnica extract gel can produce effects similar to ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is useful for treating pain in people with osteoarthritis.

It should be noted, however, that the studies are inconclusive as to the effectiveness of the plant’s pain relieving properties. In addition, there is no detailed and precise information on the current dose.

2. Arnica helps reduce bruising

Bruises usually occur as a result of a blow or trauma to a part of the body. They occur when blood vessels just under the skin burst as a result of the impact.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, arnica could help reduce these “bruises”. In this regard, a report published in the American Journal of Therapeutics suggests that the plant was more effective than a placebo at treating various physical conditions. This includes, among other things, post-traumatic and post-operative pain, edema and bruises.

On the other hand, a study published in The British Journal of Dermatology showed that 20% arnica gel was more effective than 5% vitamin K and a placebo given to people with small bruises created by lasers.

3. The medicinal plant helps prevent hair loss

In addition to the benefits listed above, arnica may also have properties that promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. It appears that using the oil from this plant helps reduce irritation and inflammation of the scalp.

In this case, several sources of anecdotal data confirm the effectiveness of using arnica for the stated purposes and in popular hair care products. However, there is very little scientific documentation about it.

Make your own ointment and tea with arnica

We will then show you how you can best benefit from the advantages of this medicinal plant:

ointment

Topical use is best for treating inflammation and bruising. You can make this ointment yourself quickly and easily.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of coconut oil (400 ml)
• 1/2 cup dry arnica (50 g)
• 1/2 cup grated beeswax (62 g)

Preparation:

• First, heat the coconut oil and dried arnica flowers in a water bath and leave them on the stove at a low temperature for an hour.
• Then pour the oil through a sieve to remove the solids.
• Then add the beeswax and heat it in a water bath until it melts. The temperature shouldn’t be too high.

• Then mix everything together well and pour the ointment into a sealable jar. Keep them in a cool, dry place.

Arnica tea

Making arnica tea is extremely easy. You only need a few ingredients and you can then drink the result or, in the case of a bruise or muscle pain, make a poultice and apply it directly to the affected area.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of water (250 ml)
• 1 handful of arnica flowers
• Honey (optional)

preparation

• Brew the medicinal herb with hot water and let it steep for 10 minutes.
• Then pour through a sieve and sweeten with honey if desired.

Possible side effects from arnica

Although arnica is an herb that serves as a natural alternative to treating the conditions mentioned in the article, it is important to consider the possible side effects of using arnica. In high doses, arnica leads to nausea, vomiting and digestive problems.

At the same time, some people are allergic to the components of this plant. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid its use, as this medicinal herb could have negative effects on the health of the baby. For this reason, you should always consult a doctor before using arnica or when in doubt.