HERB CORNER: Arnica

ARNICA

FAMILY: Asteraceae

LATIN NAME: Arnica Montana

NICKNAMES: Wolf’s Bane, Mountain Daisy

Arnica is one of the best herbs to use topically for pain. It is best known for its effects on bruising and muscle pain. Arnica is native to North America, Europe and parts of northern Asia. It is a bright yellow perennial herb that looks very similar to a daisy. It’s daisy like appearance is what claimed its place in the Asteraceae Family where sunflowers, dandelions and marigolds also belong. While beautiful to look at, Arnica also has powerful healing properties that have been taken advantage of since the 1500’s. The flowers are infused to make oil or pressed to expel their own oils. The oil is used to make topical ointments, salves, lotions, balms and much more. It is a highly powerful herb, a little goes a long way. Arnica can be heavily diluted and taken internally, but can be extremely toxic if the undiluted plant is ingested. Taking Arnica internally is controversial, however the topical use of Arnica is widely known and accepted. Arnica is an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial. It holds Analgesic properties, similar to that of NSAIDS (ibuprofen, Tylenol, aspirin) we use to dull a head ache. One of the best all encompassing parts of Arnica is that is doesn’t only decrease inflammation, it also provides pain relief. Arnica is made up of many compounds that create a synchrony of healing properties which include (but are not limited to) linoleic acid, helenalin, thymol, palmitic acid and various other ethers. Arnica can aid in the pain of bruises, burns, cute, sprains, breaks, arthritis, and joint pain. It also speeds up the rate at which the wound will heal, and soothes histamine reactions. Arnica can help promote hair growth and is great to lock in moisture topically. The redness and blemishes caused by acne can be largely helped by applying Arnica to the affected area. Avoid putting Arnica on freshly broken skin or open wounds, let the wound have a couple days before applying and feel the healing benefits.

Arnica can be found in Nourish CBD’s Bath Bombs, Spot Treatment Nectar, Cooling Muscle Salve, Tattoo Recovery Salve, and Respiratory Vapor Salve